NOTE: Written message at the end of the article.
In a remarkable and inspiring story, Tina Hines, a woman who was medically declared dead for an astonishing 27 minutes, wrote a haunting message immediately after being resuscitated—one that has intrigued her family and touched the hearts of many. Her experience sheds light on the mysterious realm between life and death and offers a profound perspective on what may lie beyond.
The events unfolded in February 2018 when Tina and her husband Brian were hiking in Phoenix, Arizona. Suddenly, Tina suffered a massive heart attack. Her husband quickly called 911 and began performing CPR to keep her alive while awaiting emergency responders. When paramedics arrived, Tina was transported to the hospital, but not without intense efforts to revive her. Reports indicated that paramedics had to bring her “back to life” four times en route to the medical facility. Upon arrival, she was placed on a defibrillator and eventually stabilized, but not before being clinically dead for 27 minutes.
What makes Tina’s story extraordinary is what happened immediately after she regained consciousness. Despite being weak and confused, Tina urgently requested a pen and paper. She then scribbled the words “It’s Real.” At first, her family struggled to interpret the meaning of her message. Was she referring to the pain she felt or the hospital itself? But when her daughter suggested the possibility that Tina was referring to “Heaven,” Tina nodded in affirmation.
This powerful message appeared to reveal that Tina had experienced a near-death vision of Heaven, a revelation that fascinated both her family and those who have heard her story. Such near-death experiences (NDEs) have been reported by others who briefly passed away but returned to life with vivid memories of spiritual or otherworldly realms. Scientific studies have shown that even after the heart stops beating, the brain remains active for a short period, potentially explaining the flash of memories or visions people report. However, the profound peace and vivid imagery described by many survivors remain difficult to fully explain.
Tina described her vision of Heaven as an “unbelievable rest and peacefulness.” She recounted seeing Jesus standing with his arms wide open, enveloped in a radiant and vibrant glow. The experience was so real to her that it left an indelible mark on her life. She told the Christian Broadcasting Network about the vivid colors and the intense sense of calm she felt, emphasizing the spiritual significance of what she witnessed.
Tina’s experience is not unique. Similar stories have been told by others who faced death but came back, including a man struck by lightning who reported seeing a comparable vision. These accounts continue to fuel both scientific inquiry and spiritual debate about consciousness after death and the nature of the soul.
Inspired by her experience, Tina wrote a book titled Heaven – It’s Real… How Dying Changes Living, where she shares her story in greater detail. The book also offers guidance on facing everyday struggles such as anxiety, depression, fear, and relationship challenges, drawing on the hope and peace she found through her near-death experience.
Tina Hines’ story is a powerful reminder of the mystery of life and death. Her haunting message, “It’s Real,” continues to inspire those grappling with questions about the afterlife and provides comfort that there may indeed be something beyond our earthly existence.
Sarah Mitchell is a bestselling novelist recognized for her insightful and emotionally resonant stories that explore the complexities of human relationships. Originally from Denver, Colorado, Sarah grew up in a family of teachers who nurtured her curiosity and love for storytelling. She studied psychology at Stanford University, where she became fascinated by the intricacies of human behavior—an interest that would later shape her writing career. Sarah’s novels are praised for their nuanced characters, intricate plots, and ability to capture the subtle tensions that define love, friendship, and family ties. Her breakthrough novel, The Spaces Between Us, became an instant bestseller, lauded for its honest portrayal of strained family relationships and the fragile bonds that hold people together. Since then, she has published several works that continue to captivate audiences around the world. Outside of her writing career, Sarah is passionate about mental health advocacy and often partners with organizations to promote awareness and support for those struggling with emotional well-being. Her personal life is quieter—she enjoys hiking in the Colorado mountains, practicing yoga, and spending time with close friends. With each new book, Sarah Mitchell cements her reputation as a writer who illuminates the beauty and struggles of human connection.
