Alone on the Mountain with a Stranger in Crisis | Hiker Must Lead Him to Safety or Perish

[@outdoordisasters]

For the sake of brevity, couldn't use the full letter. Here's what "John" wrote in totality: "I hope this reaches the right group of rescuers. This is hard to do but must try, part of my therapy. I want to remain anonymous, but I was called John. On Sunday Oct. 17 I went up my favorite trail, Jewell, to end my life. Weather was to be bad. Thought no one else would be there, I was dressed to go quickly. Next thing I knew this lady was talking to me, changing my clothes, talking to me, giving me food, talking to me, making me warmer, and she just kept talking and calling me John and I let her. Finally learned her name was Pam. Conditions were horrible and I said to leave me and get going, but she wouldn’t. Got me up and had me stay right behind her, still talking. I followed but I did think about running off, she couldn’t see me. But I wanted to only take my life, not anybody else and I think she would’ve tried to find me The entire time she treated me with care, compassion, authority, confidence and the impression that I mattered. With all that has been going wrong in in my life, I didn’t matter to me, but I did to Pam. She probably thought I was the stupidest hiker dressed like I was, but I was never put down in any way-chewed out yes-in a kind way. Maybe I wasn’t meant to die yet, I somehow still mattered in life. I became very embarrassed later on and never really thanked her properly. If she is an example of your organization/professionalism, you must be the best group around. Please accept this small offer of appreciation for her effort to save me way beyond the limits of safety. NO did not seem in her mind. I am getting help with my mental needs, they will also help me find a job and I have temporary housing. I have a new direction thanks to wonderful people like yourselves. I got your name from her pack patch and bumper sticker. My deepest thanks, John"

[@AzovAzza]

Just… Wow! As soon as I finished your video, I watched the movie they made about this event, “Infinite Storm.” Some additional dramatizations for Hollywood, sure. Otherwise, was pretty spot on with your story, step by step. I’m glad I watched it. I’m glad you chose to do this video! Cheers, my friend. ☺️

[@outdoordisasters]

@@AzovAzza Yes, definitely more Hollywood dramatizations. The mountain was way more menacing looking than Mt. Washington. And as we know, "John" is still unknown. I kinda get it, but the core of the story is still true and very good.

[@ladydi4runner]

@@AzovAzzaExactly! I already passed over it once, will be going there directly now!👍😆👌

[@spookycat5927]

Thank you for including the full text of John’s letter. The fact that he sent it only a week after the ordeal is incredible. He must have gotten help the next day. To already be in therapy, have a job and housing lined up, and be making steps like this letter for his therapy, all within a week, shows how motivated he was to move forward. Hopefully his letter and story help others like him. Thanks again.

[@WTFSexyHeadphones]

Dang, I come here for a sense of what is to me, a nearly mystical horror I will never experience, and OD over here making me feel all the emotions, rubbing all the onions in my eyes, signing me up for extra emotional journeys! 😭 Straight up went from guess I'll die vibes to guess I'll cry.

[@debbieellett9093]

I got goosebumps at the sheer determination of this woman. Then again when you read the letter he wrote. Very happy they both survived that ordeal.

[@outdoordisasters]

Tell me about it. She is a marvel.

[@PatriciaS-t1x]

We all feel for you John. We all love you. What an amazing coincidence that Pam came and saved you. This is definitely a miracle from God. It only makes sense that god will continue to bless you. He didn’t save you to abandon you. May you always have an angel at your side. That’s what all of us need. God bless you always ❤love from Trisha in New Zealand.

[@outdoordisasters]

Amen.

[@troutfisher7182]

Good thing she followed his tracks. Inspiring story.

[@kennethlui2268]

What a great woman Pam is.

[@marisacherry]

Extraordinary and relevant story. As someone with mental illnesses, who works in community mental health and is a mountaineer aspiring to Search & Rescue, Pam's ability and demeanor provide a great lesson for all of us.

[@outdoordisasters]

Very appreciative of your comment. And thank you for sharing.

[@ericd6099]

Ran into Pam twice on Guadalupe Peak last Saturday at Guadalupe Mountains National Park. She is a delight.

[@outdoordisasters]

That's awesome!

[@LauraBzar-bk5sd]

@@ericd6099 if you see her again, please tell her I love her and thank you. Laura ❤️

[@Vizaya]

Wow. Stories like this are a reminder that there are still plenty of good people in this world.

[@stephendacey8761]

Mental health is a real problem today. With the way the world is, and with so much uncertainty in the world, I think lots of people are struggling with their mental health. It only takes one person to listen and care for somebody to turn their life around. It's nice that this man found Pam in his darkest moments.

[@outdoordisasters]

Well said.

[@KMTBCEAlkebulan]

The letter The survivor wrote on her behalf is beautiful poignant and powerful ❤😂❤ He Truly appreciates her exploits on his behalf

[@melodysmith307]

God bless this woman. She is an absolute saint. I am in awe at how she worried more about that poor man over her own. I wish I was a fraction the person she is. She is my hero for sure.

[@AzovAzza]

What an absolutely phenomenal story. What an absolutely phenomenal woman. This was a great video. I sure appreciate the way you present your content. One of my favorite channels, by far!

[@outdoordisasters]

You said well Aaron. She's phenomenal.

[@Mangotheman-u5x]

A true example of empathy and compassion. Thanks Pam for your humanity.

[@qmaube1]

She saved his life and spirit. An angel woman.

[@awomanmotherw2kids393]

Now that is a strong brave woman for those who don't know what a woman is!

[@DJNAZZZZTY]

Got to hike Mt Wash when i was a kid, now I'm planning on taking my son. Way to go Pam!!! A true Hero

[@esterherschkovich6499]

Another brilliant story of Another brilliant helpful soul❤Felt very emotional watching this story..Pam ❤was an Angel in disguise. So good John was helped.

[@outdoordisasters]

Pam is an angel. Thank you for watching!

[@vickyfellers7046]

Pam Bales... RESPECT! There are very few things HARDER than caring about someone's life, who is done with that life! Well done!

[@dianesavant2818]

An amazing woman

[@sf9145]

What an inspiration, in every way, that this woman is. I just recertified my CPR/ First Aid requirement for my employment. It is a dread for a non-medical person. It's a big responsibility with ....little training. I will no longer dread having to recertify because that little bit of training might in a terrible situation be all that is needed. She didn't give up under terrible odds. Well, that is my training. Keep at it until professional help arrives. Could very well be enough. Thanks for another good one!!

[@LauraBzar-bk5sd]

She saved him twice in the same rescue. ❤

[@luciaconn6788]

undressing him...

[@chrisbentleywalkingandrambling]

If not for Pam, John certainly would have died. Thank you for including the letter. I wish John well and thank you for recounting this story in the way you did. Another great video. Thanks for sharing.

[@MarceloVolcato]

Mount Washington is no joke. I hope "john" never do anything like that again. Pam Bales is a legend!

[@linds17]

Hope you go from strength to strength john. Life can be very hard. You were saved by an angel in more ways than one ❤️🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

[@paulajensen3664]

Beautiful story - SAR deserves every bit of recognition they get - selfless heroes, including the dogs they train! Thank you for bringing the great story to light. As always, your delivery and the tips at the end of the work of excellence!

[@outdoordisasters]

A appreciate the kind words.

[@wt5284]

What a hero queen. Seriously, my God, the utter determination that she displayed. May you forever walk in the light Pam.

[@zztop4996]

This made me cry. I just found a trailer for "Infinite Storm." Your video is MUCH better. Straight-up honest truth vs overly dramatized Hollywood nonsense. The cool thing about their having made the film at all is that it honors Pam. I wonder whether John ever saw it. Heck, he might even be here posting in the comments. Never say never. Thank you!

[@behindthespotlight7983]

2:52 aside from physical fitness and good ol’ common sense what Pam did is a sterling example of how to solo hike safely. She left her specific itinerary with two people and a copy on her vehicle. Provided she packed layers, water and a solid survival kit her example is exactly what should be emulated.

[@rebeccahylant7695]

Mental health is so often overlooked. Thank you for this extraordinary story.

[@miahyde2599]

This is easily one of the best stories you have ever created. Thank you for your work. Very inspirational. ❤️

[@outdoordisasters]

Appreciate the comment. It's definitely the most important. My hope is someone watches this and knows how to deal with someone going through a mental health crisis or if you're someone that needs help, knows what it takes to get help and get better.

[@Alaryicjude]

I didn't think this would make me cry but it did! What a beautiful story! 🌹 Your channel is so freaking wholesome! Thank you for all you do!

[@outdoordisasters]

I appreciate the kind words!

[@Mus1c1luv]

Superwoman DOES exist! Bravo to this remarkable person!

[@jimhenderson387]

Wow! That guy is one of the luckiest people I've ever heard of. I sincerely hope he was able to improve his life. And if I ever get in trouble, no matter what kind, I hope this angel is there for me too.

[@darwinrussell]

Really good writing on this one. Very engaging and dramatic but with a sensitivity too. Well done.

[@outdoordisasters]

Thank you very much!

[@kayrmet]

Thank you for the uplifting story.

[@Sad_Bumper_Sticker]

This video is a visual and narrative masterpiece

[@outdoordisasters]

I appreciate the kind words.

[@RealGrooveRandom]

Pam is one amazing human being.. I'm truly inspired by this story and her strength when faced with almost impossible situations. Thanks for sharing..

[@jeepliving1]

Pam certainly deserves all the credit she is given, but it's important to remember that 'John' also made a choice at her urging. He chose to fight once he found he had an ally to help. In the end, he didn't give up. That is also a kind of strength.

[@spookycat5927]

In the four months since I’ve found your channel, it has quickly become my favorite. It’s weird to say I get excited when I see a video, because more often than not the story itself will be grim, but the content is just so good. You deliver these stories with such care, dedication, and heart. (And as always, I love your voice and delivery. I could listen to you tell stories all day.) This one hit differently, for many reasons. As soon as I heard Mt. Washington, my ears perked up. Most of your stories have a bit of distance, as I’m not likely to be in the places or situations where the disasters occur, but I’m planning to hike the AT. The weather on this mountain is notoriously bad, and I’ve heard so many horror stories that I’m already nervous. So I definitely listened to this one with a different mindset. As soon as you mentioned the set of sneaker footprints my heart stopped. Even experienced hikers have died when ill-equipped for a change in weather, not to mention the possibility of tourists without much outdoor knowledge visiting popular scenic spots with little to no preparation. I assumed the worst. At this point I’d already forgotten the information in the title 😅 What struck me about Pam was her ridiculous amount of preparation. Probably because of her SAR training, she had so many redundancies and precautions it was insane. Not only informing multiple people, including SAR friends, of her route, she had a bail out plan, multiple sets of warm clothing/gear, a rescue whistle, micro spikes, checked with the observatory for the weather, and all the rest. It read like a step by step guide to what one should do when hiking, even when experienced and all is expected to go well. Even referencing the observatories advisory about foot placement, showing how important checking for such information is. And the fact that she kept her wits about her even though her situation wasn’t great and she was probably quite worried for the “lost” hiker. “Summiting was an option, but ensuring her safe return was paramount.” This quote hit hard. So many people push for that brief moment at the expense of a lifetime of moments. God, this woman’s head is on so straight it’s mind blowing. I might have developed a bit of a hero-crush on her. Putting herself in danger in order to find the person who left the tracks, taking the time to check him for injuries and put warmers on his feet so he didn’t get frostbite, pulling out AN ENTIRE EXTRA SET OF CLOTHES for him to replace his wet ones. God, when she pulled out MORE clothes after she’d already layered up again herself, I was like…Doraemon? Mary Poppins? What magical pack pocket is she keeping multiple sets of extra layers in? For a day hike that she expected to finish before encountering bad weather. MULTIPLE sets. At that moment, she full on became my hero. Like, even for those prepared with the ten essentials, multiple sets of extra layers-for a day hike-is not even overkill. More like it wouldn’t even occur to most. I don’t know if it’s a SAR habit for her to prepare extra in case she encounters someone else underprepared or what, but when she kept pulling shit out, bivvy and all, I was thoroughly convinced this woman is a treasure and can do anything. The fact that she didn’t know he was out there by choice, and that even if she had it wouldn’t have changed anything, and kept calm, helped him without judgment, and got both of them back safely, it’s a testament to her incredible character, knowledge, and skills. His letter made me want to cry. Because he didn’t expect to meet anyone up there, but instead met someone who saved him at the risk of her own life and safety, and that for a stranger to care to that extent saved his life…it gave me chills. Your objectivity and calm reminders at the end are always incredible, truly leaning on the lessons in a tragedy so we learn from them without judgment or sensationalism. The mental health suggestions this time were delivered in the same calm way, and for that I applaud you. I don’t know how many people you will potentially save with the knowledge and stories you impart, but this is truly your most important lesson yet. Thank you. (And sorry so long…concision is not a strength of mine…)

[@outdoordisasters]

Your comment has made my day. I couldn't have said it better in the way you described Pam. "John" was so fortunate that not only was someone there, but Pam Bales was there, one of the most prepared hiker you'll ever hear about (especially on this channel lol). She has EVERYTHING needed for John's survival. I don't know if many would have been able to save his life, because many would have had the right tools for him to make it down. You're absolutely correct, she is a badass and a heroine in every sense of the word. Thank you for your kind words. It's folks like you that give me the motivation to make the quality content you expect and look forward to. I really appreciate your support.

[@spookycat5927]

@@outdoordisasters I was too focused on Pam herself that I didn’t really think about it that way until your comment, but you’re right, that BECAUSE it was her he was saved, and that even if someone else wanted to, they might not have been able to. Because he was in a terrible state when she found him, let alone with hours of arduous hiking ahead. Without dry, warm clothes, it’s not even that he might not have been able to make the trek, but he probably would’ve died from hypothermia before they’d reached the cars. There are definitely lessons to be learned from, here. That preparation isn’t just for what we expect to encounter, but for what others could encounter. Because wanting to help means being prepared to help. Beyond carrying an inReach, because with bad weather SAR can’t get to you, so surviving until things clear is part of the prep. This episode definitely has me thinking seriously about taking a wilderness first responder class. And packing not just to help myself. I’m glad my (ridiculously long) comment was affirming. Please do keep making this content. So many people get inspired to step outdoors without knowing the importance of educating themselves. Too many die on simple day hikes to not take even an excursion of a few miles seriously. If the algorithm throws one of these videos in front of people who don’t know better, lives could be saved. But yup. In the middle of watching Infinite Storm and this woman is a freaking icon. (The moment where she placed a sealed map of her route under her wiper was just a perfect example of her thoughtfulness from SAR. It kind of epitomized her forethought and preparation. Regardless of whether that is really a habit of hers.) Thanks again for bringing light to an amazing story of human heroics and to a badass woman I’d never heard of but now am fangirling hard.

[@joemegna447]

This old girl rocks! A true hero! Wish I could find a woman like her.

[@tylers82]

Pam is a real one. Hope “John” is doing well. Incredible story

[@EXROBOWIDOW]

I was on Mt. Washington just once. It took my breath away-- literally. We went in the fall, and rode up the cog railway, which was delayed several times. When we stepped out of the car at the summit, we could barely see or breathe because of the 70 mph wind driving the fog. The wind was nearly suffocating me by pushing my breath back into my nostrils. We stayed a short while inside the observation building at the summit, then headed back down. Of course this video isn't really about the mountain and its ferocity. It's about one human being helping another in a time of crisis.

[@yukiefromoz2573]

What a true heroine!

[@michellep9999]

Amazing story! Great advice at the end. Thank you, Outdoor Disasters!

[@djohnson9083]

Wow. Pam is a pro. Amazing woman. She was so well-prepared.

[@sarahcrane5029]

Pam is an angel.

[@ericriggs501]

Another great story! Good job Mr. Outdoor Disasters Dude

[@moonwacha]

I’m sobbing. What an amazing story.

[@kathduncan9618]

Shero! What a wonderful woman 🏆

[@marlenedouglas7957]

Just started listening can't believe Pam is doing this what guts. Now will continue to listen to see if Pam makes it i hope sooo.

[@kiyonahthundersong828]

Wonderful screenwriting and narration, sir.

[@outdoordisasters]

Thank you so much!

[@Arooney97]

I have hiked these trails multiple times in the past couple years, though not in the winter. Pam's resilience and willingness to risk her life to save someone else's is incredibly powerful.

[@zoobaby2003]

I know this story and look forward to hearing you tell it, but for now, I will have to wait (saving the video). I’m not in the right mindset to hear a story about a guy being overwhelmed with life as I’m in a similar situation (not suicidal just completely overwhelmed with too many serious issues, including dealing with 2 separate insurance companies). Thank you for sharing these stories, I look forward to watching this one soon 😊

[@outdoordisasters]

It will always be here. Things always get better. You'll pull through!

[@Mary-gl1sv]

Pam is an Earth Angel.

[@macioluko9484]

Amazing story. Amazing lady!

[@outdoordisasters]

She is an absolute rockstar. Thank you for watching!

[@mtadams2009]

I have heard this story before but you did a fantastic job telling it. You could pretty do entire channel with all of the rescues and deaths that have happened on Mount Washington. Just last June a man died of hypothermia on Mount. Washington. Last fall and into early winter two more died on the Franconia Ridge area. It’s actually mind boggling how many people have died in the White Mountains. I think because they are not that tall people do not give them the respect they deserve. While the mountains are not that tall the weather can be brutal and they do not have any switch backs and the trails in the Whites are some of the physically most demanding I have ever hiked. It makes hiking the PCT seem like a walk in the park. You do a great job, thank you

[@outdoordisasters]

That's what I hear. They're not menacing-looking mountains like in the West, but the weather is on par with some of the largest peaks in the world. The movie didn't use Mt Washington. Probably because it doesn't look intimidating.

[@mtadams2009]

@@outdoordisasters Your probably right on why they did not use the actual mountain or it could be the terrible weather on the mountain. Fifty plus mile an hour wind is nothing up there. Temps are already down into the 30s on the mountain. Sometimes in the winter with the windchill we are talking 85 below. I backcountry ski on Tuckermans Ravine and it’s very rugged as is Huntington Ravine so is the Great Gulf. Last year a 19 year old and a 28 year old died in Franconia Ridge. One in November and one in December. It’s generally hyperthermia. Some carry In Reach devices and its still not enough, the weather is at another level. Take care

[@Jaromir-Druzba]

Sir, honestly, I really appreciate your work on these! Encountered your channel and listening to it by evenings. Your way of presenting the story, subtle background music and your voice are perfect for the delivery of such stories and, what's more important, the point. Being an experienced hiker in Taiga I can say that many people simply misunderstand beauty for kindness. One thing is to read about it, or to watch pictures of nice scenery, but the other to be able to cope with it in person if things go "not so optimally". The recklessness with which common citizen ventures into the nature still astonishes me. As if people have this idea that they are "supermen" with nine lives in stash. I live in Karelia next to Ladoga lake. And every single year we have: - people going on a small boat far off the shore an getting stranded, or drowning, or just disappear (Ladoga lake is the biggest in Europe and behaves more like sea and not as a lake) - people going into the forests and falling off cliffs, getting lost, getting attacked by animals (bear or wolf is not such a problem... boars or deers are) - people venturing into the forests or into the lake during winter (down to -35 C) and disappearing for various reasons (lost, attacked by animals, falling under the ice, etc.) And people never learn. You tell them what and why not to do, and they still do it even within minutes after they said "understood". Salute to you from Russia! I love your work! I hope there was more awareness of these things.

[@johnsoutdooradventures3293]

Oh my goodness, amazing story!!!!!❤❤❤ Thank you!

[@Mary-momof8]

Having depression & anxiety myself, a part of me can understand John's decision. What he didn't count on was Pam Bales...his guardian angel that day. John, I hope & pray you're doing much better. Keep seeking the help you need. Pam, you're an angel in disguise!! How many would've walked away, but you didn't. God bless you for saving John. You showed him that he mattered!!💙💙💙

[@silverlance65]

Thank you for this story, it reminds me that compassion can get lost is this day and age, this reminds me not to lose site of that.

[@Jen-rose76]

I kept thinking that at any moment you were gonna say that she was not real that john had dreamed her up to help him deal with the trauma of where he had put himself. For some reason my video started from John. I am now watching it over and feel like a real idiot!! Anyway I really truly believed there couldn’t be someone that amazing out there in the middle of nowhere just at the moment John needed someone. I myself have bipolar and spend many days in my bed wondering why I am even here!! As I listen to this story I understand exactly how John felt, just wanting it to end the pain to stop!! To me Pam is an angel she was exactly were she needed to be rite at that very moment. Amazing. She is a true hero!! Pam is what we all should be a loving human who loves there fellow human no madder who it is!! What a wonderful women. I have bipolar and completely understand johns feelings at that moment!! Thanks to Pam for being the amazing women that she is. I hope John has a good 2nd chance at life. ❤🙏🏽💙🙏🏽

[@jimmywrangles]

Not all hero's wear capes.

[@TheBohemiansWife]

Thank you for this show. It hit home. Excellent survival tips.

[@friibird]

I've personally struggled with SI and an SA for over half my life at this point. There have been moments, even when I was committed to staying alive, where every part of my body was screaming out at me to just find some corner of the world to curl up in and stop moving or talking. I have gone into that state once or twice, and it was treated with the same severity as if I said I was actively suicidal with a plan and the means. It's hard to explain if you've never experienced it, seen it, or received training about it. I don't know if it's the same thing as going catatonic or if that's something different. It is this withdrawn, shut down, lock the door behind you when you leave kind of feeling. One that will have you spending an entire day hiding inside a closet under a pile of laundry with no music, media, or anything because you simply can't intake anymore, there's no one home. Empty house. Please just turn the lights off and lock the door behind you. And that's happened during periods I was actively communicating, working with professionals, and committed to staying alive. Because it's not simply that people want to die. To be clear, during this time I also couldn't be near a train or a highway without having the vivid urge to yeet myself into oblivion. So I was fighting but the desire to die was very much present. Like I said, it's hard to explain. I felt John deep in my bones. I know that desire to simply sit down and slip away. Especially in such a beautiful and peaceful place he loved. I hope he is eventually able to go back to his favorite trail. I hope this didn't spoil the place for him.

[@outdoordisasters]

Thank you for sharing your struggles. I hope you're doing better and leaning on people who care about your well being. You matter and I'm sure your family and friends know this and love you deeply. Keep fighting, because life is worth living my friend.

[@friibird]

@@outdoordisasters thank you. Things have improved a lot for me in recent years, but the bad feelings sometimes invade even the brightest of spaces. Sometimes I find myself in absolutely beautiful places around wonderful people and I just... can't... be anything else besides depressed. It's hard sometimes feeling like I 'should' be happy. But mostly I have much better tools and I've been able to add more tools every few weeks for years, now. Getting away from the bad people I grew up with did worlds for me, as well. I deeply appreciated your advice at the end, I always appreciate the survival advice you give at the end of each video. But it was surprising and nice to hear you give instruction to navigate out of a mental disaster with the same reassurance and agency you use to talk about professional mountaineering skills. In case anyone like me does read this comment. Hear that the way out is gradual change and slow habits. Certain big interventions, obviously, can be helpful. But in general, anyone trying to sell you on a big change or a huge fix is probably either misguided, or outright malicious. Find your people, and if the people you think are you're people respond poorly, they are not your people. Let them go. Believe that your people are out there and waiting for you, because they are. Right now. They're already getting ready for you. They've put extra heat pads in their backpacks just for you. It gets better very slowly, but the better that builds is powerful and worth it. Small, tiny choices and changes add up hugely every day. You can change your life by forcing a meal down tonight before bed, or by attempting to brush your teeth. Hold on to any goodness you can and believe it will grow. It matters, especially when it feels to you like it doesn't matter. You are enough to save yourself, especially if you allow others to help. It gets better, it really does. It gets better whether you believe it will or not. You can move forward without faith, without conviction. We can unlock the doors and let others in whenever we want. If you need a place to start. Find a local hospital that's large enough to have many departments, specifically reception/ directory staff. Do not go into emergency unless you are actively needing emergency intervention. You can seek help from the hospital before you need emergency intervention. Go during business hours, ask the directory staff to help you find a PCP in their network, explain that you are not yet in crisis and this is you taking steps to prevent crisis. They will put a phone number and an address in your hands before you leave, which is huge if you're dealing with brain fog, apathy, or poor concentration. Set up the PCP appointment and ask them for a general health screen, before you see anyone for psych. Check vitamins and blood levels, check for infection signs, check for other physical problems that could be making your chronic depression worse. The PCP will be able to give a referral to a therapist, counselor, or psych specialist depending on what you ask for. Going this route gives you a lot more control over the situation than going to emergency. I've done this without insurance, partly why I recommend a big enough hospital network to have patient financial aid services. Taking real steps should make most people feel safer, more in control of the situation, and at least a tiny bit more hopeful in a quicker way than positive thinking or reassurance from friends. When in doubt, remember there are staff who's whole, sole job it is to help people navigate the medical system to get the care they need. Start somewhere, start anywhere, and believe that progress is achievable.

[@Katie-vy5rd]

Wow you write here with knowing, reassurance and eloquence.. and with a very big heart to want to help others. You are a special petson.. I can tell !!!😇

[@friibird]

@@Katie-vy5rd 💙💙💙

[@HuyTran-xi9lt]

@friibird Please know that you are saving many lives by taking the time to share about your many struggles and your long arduous steps towards recovery. Depression runs deep in my core and recent years have been the worse. I too have had fleeting SI and no one would believe if I tell down what dark place I am in behind that closed door and “that jolly, bubbly exterior” (think Robin Williams). You are 100% correct about taking the small steps no matter how small they are to save yourself. It is a long working progress, but nevertheless progress. May you continue to thrive and survive with strength and triumph in each and every one of your small success ! Know that you are enough and life is worth living ! Thank You for sharing your story and wisdom in efforts to save others ! God Bless ! ❤️

[@Celynthia]

Wonderful woman

[@logicmeme]

What an amazing woman. Thanks for telling this story so well. Your channel is the best for survival stories, really appreciate the survival tips at the end of the video.

[@CoMorbiditty]

He was meant to survive. No way she was there and following his tracks for nothing. Glad they are both alive.

[@kleokleopatra3536]

absutely amazing !!! a cmplete pro in a life or death situation !!! Pam truly is an unslfish hero !!!!

[@AmyB-xo7pk]

This was such a heartwarming story. You told it well, I could visualize everything in my head. Thank you for discussing the importance of mental health. It is an important issue and everyone should feel comfortable seeking the care they need.

[@lizpontaneous9121]

What a wonderful story. Thank you for sharing.

[@elizabethmarshall3558]

I'm a novice hiker who lives in Montana but grew up in New England and spent quite a bit of time in the White Mountains. This is a powerful story and now I look forward to watching the movie. In fact while I watched your video of friend was hiking not too far from Mount Washington.Kudos to Pam Bale. And kudos to you for all the information you shared about protecting one's mental stability.

[@jonahgadoury6421]

Pam, is inspiring me to this day! One act like this can butterfly into a changed world, seriously.... I will not get into that here, but if you know what I mean, you understand. Thank you Pam! Best to "John"

[@markbrown7103]

This is one terrific lady. She had to have been put there for a reason. I wished her the best of life. She really deserves recognition for what she has done. What a beautiful soul I’m sure the good Lord has a place in his heart for and for him to, what a beautiful story. It brings tears to my eyes.😢 to see people helping helping each other that way. Thanks for such a wonderful video. Have a great night and thanks again.👍🏼👍🏼😁❤️

[@KaptainKopter]

Beautiful story about a special kind of person told by a special channel outdoor disasters KZbins best! This womans determination to get this man down the mountain in blizzard like conditions will renew your faith in humanity! Not sure how many people could accomplish what this lady did or how many would even try but I will venture a guess and say not very many that’s for sure! This channel must be the hardest working on KZbin as they continue to roll out great stories and the quality never suffers!

[@geminiflamez]

God bless ❤

[@mattbernacke]

Thank you Mr. Outdoor Disasters for sharing these amazing stories with us. You always give such respect and honor to the events and all involved. Wonderful storytelling and insight/advice at the end of every video. Your hard work shows and is appreciated.

[@AwkwardTurtle311]

Your voice and narration reminds me of the dinosaur flying instructor in the movie dinotopia!! So unique, i love your style.

[@bronsiee]

Thank you for all of the information you provided at the end. I recently lost my best friend to suicide.

[@outdoordisasters]

I'm so sorry for your loss. Can't imagine how hard that is on you. The advice at the end is as much learning for me as it is for the viewers of the videos. Hopefully, the advice can prevent another tragic loss like yours. Take care my friend.

[@PotooBurd]

This is so informative!!! Fantastic reporting; I enjoy this kind of content!🌻🌼🐝

[@brianmv13]

Very moving story.

[@nanaman]

Far better to yell for help than to fall into despair. Nobody wants to be in a situation where they feel they are not worthy of love or care. Be kind Always

[@lc285]

Best story yet!

[@marykelley5182]

Beautiful story. 🩷💓💕

[@plops993]

What a champion

[@marlenedouglas7957]

Yes have this story before Pam is one hell of a woman can't believe her strength.

[@DucatiQueen]

Yes you matter John, and I hope you’re doing well . Man, what a story 💪

[@kellyjansko8149]

Wow, amazing story of survival!

[@tishfox2858]

Oh what a remarkable story...what a remarkable woman!!!So glad it ended so well.👍🙏💜 Thank-you.👏👏👏👏Be good if they could Re unite one day.🤞

[@hazelduerdoth4333]

I hat an amazing woman ❤️ , I hope her and John got to meet up again .

[@williesnyder2899]

Inspiring!! Despite what we often choose to do with our brief time breathing, we are all capable of metaphorically going up or down any number of mountains… To the person who recognized that they need periodic recertification in first aid and CPR, knowing that they may…fearfully…need to use that knowledge at some uncertain moment: I understand. Please understand from a person who has indeed needed to perform CPR upon a human being, you will be glad that you could try . . . even if…even if your efforts run short . . . Be aware that you may not have help, may not gave fully competent assistance, may see paramedics say that it was…too late. But it’s always worth it to try!!

[@ydatoribio]

She’s a real hero a!

[@jennymontvitt1076]

Beautiful story.

[@princessmarlena1359]

I remember when my Girl Scouts troupe went on a snow trip. The parents met the girls at the head of the trail, packed all of the girls into the cars (supposedly), and drove away. One girl emerged from the toilets, and saw nobody was around there were no pay phones, and this was the pre-cell phones era. Her own parents, who hadn’t gone on the trip, were calling everyone after they came home past dark and saw that she wasn’t home. I myself hadn’t gone on the trip, as I had a gymnastics meet that day. There wasn’t a list of Girl Scouts or parents who went on the trip, a list of which scouts went with whom, there wasn’t even a list of drivers. The Girl Scout left behind made her way to an empty seasonal cabin and kept warm by making a fire in the fireplace and melting snow for water. She ate what little food she had left the cabin still had no phone. The next morning she was found alive and safe by the agonized volunteers and scout leaders who came back to the trail head to find her. Our Troop leader was forced to resign.

[@matthewbjordahl2866]

Instead of marathons focus on videos WE HAVE havnt heard of! ALREADY HEARD YOUR CHANNEL AND ITS GOOD EVERYTHING IS BINGWATCHED/ BING WORTHLY & NOW YOUR TESTING THAT FACT SO STOP/I LOVE LISTENING TO YOUR VID/ APPROCH IS BEYTER THAM MOST!!!!!!!!!

[@outdoordisasters]

I've uploaded a new video at least once a week for the past year.

[@MULHATTON1851]

Pam is a Good Samaritan and Guardian Angel. She is a Hero and a Wonderful Human Being. A True Blessing.

[@MaryDoyle-xl2ri]

Great channel love it👍👍❤️

[@outdoordisasters]

Thanks so much

[@quietstorm9434]

Awesome story. !!!!!!

[@normanzimmerman5029]

For John, it was a good day to die. For Pam, it was a good day to live…funny

[@patrickoleary2862]

My God - she was an angel on Earth.

[@luxetveritas4633]

Good writing❤