Hiking Accident Survivor interview-Kevin

[@EFIMira]

Kevin was trapped shortly after 15:00, there was a conference call between Josh, dispatch, a sheriff deputy, and one of the rescuers as the team and gear was assembled around 16:15. The 911 call gave dispatch their location, the first helicopter to fly over was California Highway Patrol H40 to see if they could hoist rescue personnel directly to the site. Ultimately two were landed on the ridge above and had to hike down to him because night had fallen while the teams were en route. It is a 70+mile drive, half on unpaved roads to the location from the SAR base. By a strange coincidence , two SAR members on this mission had visited the site two weeks prior to the incident, their area knowledge sped up the response time considerably. The first rescuer was on scene around 19:30, Kev really was coherent sometimes and kinda crazy at others. He screamed about his pain, he begged rescuers to get him out of there, he had normal conversations. Initially it was a crew of four; the EMT, a tech rope specialist, two all rounder members who know the basics of wilderness medicine (WFR) and ropes who can do what they're asked by their med and tech leads. A calm, humble crew that work efficiently together. It was a 7:1 mechanical advantage, and a Hi-Lift jack. A Yosemite hammer was used to hammer rocks under the low side so the rock couldn't shift and cause him more injury. The ground on site is decayed granite the consistency of dry, coarse beach sand, the digging they had done above where he came to rest meant his right leg was not experiencing the full weight of the boulder; his limb was imprinted into the soft ground. Kev was freed at 20:10. Josh and the EMT were the ones who pulled Kev by his armpits out from under there. Two pulling the rope, and the Australian on the jack. The jack perch was connected to the boulder with a bolt anchor and a carabiner so it couldn't slip and the rock crush Kev again. Once freed, he was no longer held stable by the sand and rock, his pain level jumped up considerably. He was packaged into a vacuum splint, though restless and uncomfortable. He had to be helped into different positions many times to get small amounts of relief. The second wave of five SAR members arrived around 20:30 with food, warm drinks, overnight gear, and so on. Kev was set onto a sleeping pad and wrapped in down sleeping bags, he drank hot tea and snacked on granola bars. His phone and the keys to his van were recovered from his pants. Initially it was believed he would be evacuated the next morning: the military helicopter crews are the only ones cleared to do a hoist extraction at night. The Naval crew first flew over the scene after midnight, and circled for close to 50 minutes to burn off fuel weight and make the power margin needed to hoist him and the medic safely. The Inyo SAR EMT stayed with him the entire time until he was handed off to the Navy medic. Josh was cool headed amazing help to the rescue team. Rescuing Kev is a privilege to those involved. No one is mad at Kev for needing their assistance. It's definitely a story they will tell for years to come too. Military crews doing SAR operations is invaluable real world training and life saving for victims. NAS Leemoore (and CLNWS who normally work in Inyo County) SAR crews are amazing and dedicated professionals. Inyo County Search and Rescue is a diverse and skilled team that relies on donations to keep doing the work that they do. No one is paid. Consider donating to this (or any) SAR team. Get well soon, Kev.

[@KS-yp1jl]

You guys are heroes, thank you for all that you do! 🙏🏼

[@Pippinjuice]

This comment deserves more attention! Fantastic report of what happened to go alongside kev’s perspective. Thanks and well done for everything.

[@Lilith8177]

This comment makes the video make sense. Thank you for another perspective!!

[@iiiiilllllllll]

Thank you for this writeup! I had no idea this was volunteer based. Can you share more of what you do?

[@aquachonk]

Fantastic recap, thanks for taking the time to get it down. Very informative and helpful.

[@joshyaks]

As an Advanced Care Paramedic, I had to chuckle at the awkward reality of rescues: banging the patient's head on the side of the helicopter, missing all your IV attempts. But I'm glad he showed appreciation for the nurses, too - they're the unsung heroes of the health care system.

[@georgina979]

Please take this for what it's worth. I never want to meet you but I'm grateful people like you exist. God bless you and yours and have a great life!

[@elizabethrogge7908]

Thank you-

[@donlum9128]

Mom being a Mom

[@donlum9128]

Fresno's hospital is excellent.

[@angelaingermany]

Absolutely!!!

[@carsonray3046]

Kevin is one of those dudes that is effortlessly the most hilarious person in any room he enters. Don't let this somber story fool you, he's always down to share a laugh. His attitude is infectious, an absolute gem of a person. I crossed paths with him two years back as coworkers at a consulting firm and instantly felt connected. Long story short dude left the gig to continue whetting his appetite for dogged adventure and absolutely shredding the guitar like a Stevie Ray Vaughan / Tom Petty love child. Overjoyed that he gets a second chance to continue existence and share his spice of life with all he encounters. I'm grateful to call him my friend! ❤✌️

[@oldcats-n1c]

awesome!

[@Trees100]

Like SRV? He needs to go pro.

[@avalondreaming1433]

​@@Trees100Any videos?

[@GrandmaLM]

This has just reminded me of my Sister, husband, nephew, wife hiking in mountains in CO. They heard horrible gut wrenching screams and found a woman just crushed by a boulder, her husband helpless. 😢

[@custardandberries]

I see all those vibrant qualities in him and I would love to be his friend! Or wife! I wish I could send him a letter or spontaneously meet him. What a gem ❤

[@CeriseHoodxxii]

you can tell how grateful he is for his friend during this accident. you can see it in his face everytime he mentions him, so sweet. that is absolutely a friend for life.

[@jacobwiggers1973]

I love the lesson about priorities and not worrying over money, but caring for people and appreciating life. Beautiful.

[@SocketSilver]

I had a moment in my life as such. Nothing with hiking. My childhood best friend/cousin died from C-19 in early 2020. The year before he invited my wife and I for a road trip to a Dallas Cowboys home game. We said yes at the moment but backed out a month or so later because I wanted to buy a truck. I didn’t want to spend “money.” Made my excuse and he went with his lady. Months later he got sick, talked with him on the phone, he said he would be okay. Him getting sick to dying happened so fast. I bought the truck, took my family to his graveside funeral in it. I felt so selfish. To do this day, I wish I spent that money on tickets, travel, food, lodging, and moments with him and his lady. I sold the truck! Never again will I let money be in between spending time with who I love and care for.

[@bearsmartdurango]

He'd be worrying over money again if he had to pay for the rescue. Thank god for Search & Rescue programs. Hopefully everyone here supports their local group.

[@pinkythechihuahua3156]

We say that any time we hear of people in trouble up in our mountains. Just taking an ambulance from a starting point to the hospital was $1700! Thankfully I have insurance. My fractured hip surgery as well as in recovery for 3 1/2 WEEKS was $300,000 plus. I'd be interested in what kind of $$ Kevin's rescue and recovery cost.

[@Jon-yk6ku]

Actually, if no one "worried" about or prioritized money, his spectacular rescue and subsequent medical care would have never happened. Ask anyone in a poor country if this guy would have lived if his accident had occurred in that country.

[@user-pq9ji7kt4l]

@@Jon-yk6kuExactly!

[@ManitobanSarah]

I lost a Kevin to a hiking accident. He was also a rock collector and we lived in a tiny camper at the time. This is so surreal. He even looks similar. ♥️ Rest in peace, Kevin E.A. Huntington (1989-2016).

[@pierreblenderbuss9807]

Sorry to hear--condolences to you.

[@ManitobanSarah]

Thank you ♥️

[@Brosak.]

❤Much love man hope youre able to keep going strong in life

[@matthewm1525]

So sorry to hear that. Hope you're doing well!

[@ManitobanSarah]

Thanks everyone. ♥️♥️♥️ This is a beautiful community of people. I am well. It’s amazing how reminders (such as this interview) can bring memories back so suddenly and so vividly. This Kevin is even the same age as my Kevin was when he died. The aftermath following his death was a bit of a blur. I was only 25 at the time, so I felt pretty alone since it’s uncommon to be widowed at that age. I am thankful to the Vancouver Island Search and Rescue team that safely retrieved Kevin’s body from the mountainside-we even had a private viewing before his cremation. It was hard to find my direction after, as we had been together almost daily for nearly two years at that point. Since then, I have met a wonderful partner and we have a beautiful little acreage where we are doing our best to raise our family and live slow, intentional lives and grow nourishing food. Sometimes I am still stopped in my tracks with thoughts about Kevin’s severely shortened life, and the general sadness of life and loss. In spite of that, I am certainly doing my best to live life in the present, celebrating the gift it is to be alive-to feel and to dream. One thing that still gets me is that less than a week prior to his death, he was talking a lot about death. I wish I had written it all down. Saying things like “I hope you would be able to move on and meet someone new if I died,” and just talking about how the concept of dying didn’t frighten him anymore. He had been reading nonfiction accounts of ascents of Annapurna (sp?) and Everest. It’s like his spirit was preparing. It was at that time that we talked about our wishes after death-for example, I knew that he wanted to be cremated. Our journeys are mysterious. Wishing love and peace for all. ♥️

[@shyyanne]

It would be so cool to hear the story from his friend's perspective too!

[@leanneadams2549]

Yea it would!

[@atmywhitson]

THIS!!! 🙏🏻

[@AllsWell77]

Omg yesssss! YES!

[@vaenili]

Yessss

[@anneharkin9373]

* Perspective

[@lauriepierce4068]

This young man reminds me so much of my youngest son. Same hair, same excitement .,etc. My son fell 30 feet and broke his back but by multiple miracles he is doing great!! Coaching rock climbers full time.

[@baskets8429]

Wow ! Glad he’s recovered

[@annabel33x]

wow that's amazing, i'm glad he's doing well and coaching 🩷

[@bartscave]

A thank you is huge to first responders. It is very rare. In 37 years as a firefighter/EMT I can only remember being thanked couple times.

[@StAlphonsusHasAPosse]

I went to the emergency room in bad shape. The EMT in the ambulance was amazing. He came in later when I was being treated in the ER and I said, "Thank you for keeping me alive until I got here." Because he did. God bless you and all first responders

[@Lucky2bYou]

Thank you 🙏💖

[@atmywhitson]

Thank you!! 🙏🏻 You may not be thanked verbally but best believe that you are our heroes. I nearly passed from a pulmonary embolism that had traveled to my lung 🫁 The swiftness of EMTs how quick, efficient, reassuring (I kept asking if I was going to die!) I could barely breath you take your breath for granted until you aren't able to take a FULL and glorious breath then it hits you. You all deserve the finest in life, and the best place in heaven 😇 are reserved for you, indeed!

[@honeybunmraz]

​@@atmywhitson My childhood best friend died from a pulmonary embolism December of 2019 in the middle of the night. Glad you're still here with us ❤

[@heidi32500]

My son was involved in a horrific accident where a man died and my son almost did. I think of the first responders every day and want to check on them and to tell them the facts of how that accident happened, in case they are wondering. But don't want to reburden them. I am thankful for their work in saving my son. Unfortunately the other man died almost instantly. I wish I could leave that scene behind me and keep remembering. Just don't know how to do that as a mother. (I am a retired ICU nurse, and that part of my persona, can create a distance, but not the mom persona). Hoping you don't carry much of your job with you and know there are many grateful people who have survived because of first responders and just don't know how to thank them. Even getting the records of the responders at the scene is taunting if not impossible. Blessings. Namaste

[@andydixon2980]

Humans are at their best when helping each other. Big respect to the rescue team and surgeon/nurses.

[@mindsigh4]

and helping animals who are lost, hungry or need help & a home.. 🙏💜🕯️🌱🐾👣🌿🌎🕊️

[@ahimsainthekitchen]

@@mindsigh4 Yes, unfortunately most people think of animals are objects to be used and abused. #vegan4animals

[@Carjamrac]

Moral of the story - always go adventuring with a buddy. Glad he’s okay.

[@leneo1731]

Or maybe rather say , Moral of the story, don't behave in a way that puts you and other people at risk. Engaging in extreme sports and adventures puts so many people at risk and demands so many resources.

[@sorinik40]

Moral of the story - not digging in any circumstances beneath a stone.

[@wesleyAlan9179]

@@leneo1731 Or, maybe stay in your lane. There's people out there that just love being part of that recourse you speak of. A lot of people like to do extreme things. (And we're free to choose to do so) and that's good. To some people, being part of a rescue team is that "extreme" thing for them. Don't worry about the dangerous hobbies that others have. You do you, and let them do them.

[@dagsogaard]

Moral of the story - Dont go out, stay home and watch youtube all day. joke aside. Amasing story, very touching and I am glad he made it out alive and thanks to his buddy.

[@EarthsGeomancer]

This only happens to white people. 😂😂

[@marcusgleeson]

You can hear in his voice he is so grateful to be alive, what a great story. Thanks for sharing

[@darrend2035]

Your friend is truly a “ ride or die “

[@Cutebutnotpetable]

Woah, way to go Josh! Brave BRAVE men. I’m a hiker and he’s 100% correct. Pack like you’ll be spending the night even if you’re only going out for a few hours.

[@Nobody-s824]

I could totally see Kevin being in Search and Rescue in the future. What an amazing story, glad he survived!

[@HiGlowie]

I think he’d be a great addition due to his calming demeanor.

[@kathrynbaker8215]

Isn’t it amazing that there are people who are trained to do all of these maneuvers! I am in awe of these rescuers! A great story!

[@paulw.9015]

That’s a friend you keep for a lifetime

[@ralphromeo7066]

This young man is a beautiful soul. His sense of adventure is impossible to quell even through his horrendous ordeal. I can see him doing monumental things with his life.

[@deniseancira-medina9221]

As an orthopedic trauma nurse who deals with broken pelvis femurs and any bone you can think of…a thank you is more than enough! As cheesy as it sounds it is what we do. This kind of success story is worth being at the hospital more than home, all the long hours of studying, and every single class!!! Great job on beating the odds! Want to change a life become a nurse! This is why I’m a nurse because one saved my life! ❤

[@magyarmainer4692]

This is so sweet . Nurses are generally awesome IMO and how awesome that you love what you do for work.❤

[@jamiejones6994]

I've dated more than my fair share of nurses & they were all beautiful like you but the ones I dated were mean as hell & psycho 😅I swear idk if it was just bad luck for me or what but it sure was a big coincidence 50 at very minimum of them & I don't get it nurses are always so nice at the hospital 😅

[@debbienickels2821]

My life has been saved twice by nurses. Once at age 5 and then at 46. Sure docs did advanced procedures. But the nurse is the one with me first. I worked in one of the most prestigious facilities in the Houston Medical Center and have met famous doctors. But at onset give me a nurse. Near death changed my entire life. So happy for this young man. He will go far in life and money may or may not be a part of his future. Prayers worked for me.

[@debbienickels2821]

The

[@thehumblechild0292]

My mother is an RN for Davita Dialysis . I appreciate what you guys in the medical field do! Its alot more than anyone understands

[@michellekleber1937]

I’m a Hudson Valley girl (845 life) and a cancer survivor and series of events led me to have a cardiac arrest in the right place at the right time. If my friends weren’t there to perform CPR, I would be a ghost. I was airlifted to the hospital and in a coma for three weeks and it’s been a long journey to recovery. They considered taking me off the ventilator but they kept saying, “she’s young, give her time.” I’m not glad it happened, but the clarity I got from that experience was invaluable. The event was in Connecticut (jousting at a Renaissance Faire) but I wholeheartedly believe that NYers are built differently. The friends that saved you are for life, if you happen to read this I would love to chat. There are not many in the world that have looked death in the eye and say, “not today.” Either way, rooting for you. Definitely resets your priorities.

[@AllsWell77]

I started choking on a chunk of lettuce while out for happy hour with 2 childhood friends. No air going in or out. It happened so fast. I kept patting my chest at my one friend just staring wide eyed. She stated emphatically "Do you need me to do the Heimlich?" And I wildly shook my head yes and stood up and opened my mouth really wide just out of a reflex. She did the Heimlich and I could feel my windpipe open up. The waiter then brought out our cocktails with glowsticks in them. We just sat and stared at eachother in stunned disbelief. Then when the drinks came out we started laughing like WTF. This all happened in the span of about 20 seconds. In a crowded restaurant, and nobody noticed it.

[@lisahinton9682]

@@AllsWell77 Oh, my gawd, I was barely breathing reading your story, then when you said the waiter appeared with your glow-stick-laden drinks, I just guffawed. "Wtf," indeed! Thank you for writing this out - I thoroughly enjoyed reading it.

[@AllsWell77]

@@lisahinton9682 No lie, my one friend said when the glowstick drinks came out "We don't need any more attention." But honestly, I dont think one person really noticed! Oh sweet warrior YOU have been on a journey. Wishing you all beautiful things. Unreal how life can turn on a dime.

[@AllsWell77]

@@lisahinton9682 I also said later that would have made a perfect scene in Sex in the City. My friend's sort of embarrassed "Oh my Gooodd, do you need me to do the Heimlich!?" could have been any one of them! Unreal. Truly. And I am so grateful for you being at the right place, right time, with the right people. Dying while jousting at a rennaissance faire...welll.. just NO. My humor is dark,.but I feel you and now you can carry on living life beautiful warrior.

[@peepo2560]

845, baby! So glad you are still with us ❤️

[@dixonsusa]

Search and Rescue would be an amazing career choice for you! And with your experience - you could be a valuable addition to a team.

[@robinpesek3657]

I agree!

[@charlesbritzman501]

Kevin certainly seems to have the correct intelligence , engaging personality, not to mention EXPERIENCE, to be a motivated and top notch SAR team member, if he’s willing! Good luck , Kevin, in all you do !

[@yabetterbringit]

I think they drug test 😒

[@sloesn1569]

I was thinking search & rescue is his calling too ❤

[@bananasforbikes]

Making me want to change careers

[@kingsley3371]

this is a good guy. Thank God for protecting him.

[@PinHeadThePopeOfHell]

So your imaginary friend chose to protect him, but not the 1,000 children who die every single day from starvation? 😂... Dummy🤡

[@asafoster7954]

Fictional character God

[@blitzed310]

He said it was the worst day of his life, but as the story unfolds I believe he knows it was the best day of his life out of perspective

[@MsIngPeaces]

Best is probably a stretch

[@whygowegabusch120]

They call it your "alive day."

[@atmywhitson]

Indeed!! I nearly died from a pulmonary embolism luckily the clot became stuck in my lungs 🫁 well, it felt like breathing out if a coffee stirrer but I digress, I owe my life to the EMTs, the doctors and nurses. You ALL deserve a special place in heaven. 🦋

[@christinebadostain6887]

Worst AND best---that is what makes it so compelling.

[@jameslively]

I was pinned under a tractor 7 years ago,most painfull, extrordainry, expierience, wouldnt wish it on my worst enemy, broke all my ribs, sternum, punctured both lungs, comma for three days, as i was waking up thunderbirds and eagles came talked with me, held on for my children, i feel you brother, glad we made it

[@lisahinton9682]

@jameslively Please tell us more about as you were waking up, and the thunderbirds and eagles came and talked with you. I believe you, and would like to know more.

[@Searstowerr]

He gives off such great energy. I listened to his story while drinking my latte, and his outlook on the incident was really refreshing.

[@thematriarchy2075]

If you were drinking an espresso this story could have felt very different

[@annacampos3809]

@@thematriarchy2075 🤣

[@pinkpugginz]

​@@thematriarchy2075there's espresso in lattes

[@thematriarchy2075]

@@pinkpugginz And milk

[@lenaheart8103]

Same!

[@charlesbritzman501]

Very nice young man, and he kept his narration on point and painted a gripping story. I grew up in Pasadena, CA and have spent a lot of time hiking, climbing and jeeping in So Cal and the Sierras. (I’ll be 71 next month) so I was able to put myself in his predicament and realize how much just being 27 helped save his life.

[@miriamluskberry]

What a story! Kevin, I have to say that your thanks to the medical staff was absolutely appreciated more than you know. I've been a nurse for 47 years and not everyone expresses their gratitude, so when they do it means a lot to them. So happy you have had a great outcome! I have a feeling you are meant to do great things for others.

[@amstergal]

Kevin, this makes me so emotional. My son is a volunteer fire fighter and EMT, I am proud of him beyond words and have to push aside the thoughts of danger... which are a reality. I don't know you obviously but thankful you survived, thankful your buddy was there with you and thankful to all the individuals who assisted in the rescue mission and all the hospital workers.

[@squid_fish]

TY for raising a great son and 🇺🇸 forever ❤

[@superplesu]

The 6 p's are: Proper planning prevents piss poor performance. Good on you mate, really enjoyed your story.

[@tjjones-xj7kq]

Shoot you beat me to it lol

[@STOPsuckingD4Coke]

My grandmother was a Lawyer and took me to court one day to watch her work. The Bailiff came over and introduced himself, older black man in his 60’s. And he told me about the 6 p’s…never forgot it man.

[@taywithak9174]

It’s 7. Proper prior planning prevents piss poor performance

[@chelseamiranda6651]

The fact that the rescue team was joking around and laughing,etc while saving his life is probably another reason he survived or at least helped tremendously. Had they arrived and everyone was quite and super serious that may have caused so much more anxiety. It reminded me of this time I had surgery I was so nervous and the doctors and nurses were joking and talking to me and laughing. It really helped me feel better. I felt like I was going to be ok because of how they were acting. When you’re at your worst it really helps to have positive upbeat people around you. It’d be really bad if you’re panicking and everyone else is panicking with you lol

[@tysonk-t2130]

I was thinking the same thing. They were definitely trying to keep things light for a better chance of his survival.

[@aquachonk]

Critical thinking skills are actually enhanced in a good mood, impaired in a bad one. I did a somersault over the handlebars of my mountain bike onto asphalt at speed and wound up in the ER with a TBI and separated shoulder. When the doc came in, he looked more stressed out and sick than me. I joked around, got him and his nurse laughing, and the whole room changed. Everything just went smoother and I felt there was clearer communication. How I did it: When he asked me where it hurt, I pulled out the bike park map from my jacket pocket, pointed to the spot on the trail where I kissed asphalt, and said, "It hurts here."

[@arribaficationwineho32]

It was for his benefit and also relief on their finding a survivor

[@chelseamiranda6651]

@@arribaficationwineho32 right... That was my point :)

[@kendestine9905]

As an outdoor enthusiast who has been through traumatic injuries myself, this was really inspiring. Injury trauma isn’t talked about much.

[@kendestine9905]

Also, the term he was searching for at the end is: Proper planning prevents piss poor performance.

[@transformacion13]

True

[@MagicBirdieDust]

This young man could have a career as a motivational speaker! Mark, please bring us more stories like this!

[@returntoYOU-jackede]

My left knee started twitching moments after you said you couldn’t feel yours. I’m not sure what that means but human connection is truly all we have. Giving, loving, caring and sharing time together. I’m so glad you made it man, you’re a beautiful soul🧡

[@pinkythechihuahua3156]

Same for me. I was wiggling, reliving my pain, Then Kevin talked about not being able to feel areas of his leg and knees because of nerve damage. I have neuropathy in both feet and legs as well as in my fingers. I hope his nerves regenerate and restore their function.

[@mysticmama740]

Handsome young man with a positive disposition on life. When he shared he and his friend were digging for rocks, i love that he had that sense of adventure. I hope when my son grows he still goes out to adventure as such. Safely of course, this is a good lesson that accidents can and do happen. It really wasnt his time, the fact that his friends cell phone actually worked, the way his rock cautered his artery just so to prevent bleeding, the fact that his leg was salvagable and he walks again...its a miracle because he has his purpose here still. Amazing story. Hope u never lose your love for nature and sense of adventure! Youd make a great rescue personnel also. Love his reverence for the teams that saved him. ❤

[@BuckBreaker]

6 P’s: Prior Planning Prevents Piss Poor Performance. Learned that in the Marine Corps Infantry. This was a great interview. Please do more like this. After being shot in the Battle of Fallujah and serving a total of 14 months fighting in Iraq I left with the same realizations and gratitude for the small things in life as this guy. Focus on what’s really important. God spared your life for a reason. Live life to the fullest. Take care bro 🤙🏼

[@fifteenthfret]

Hi Kevin~ I am viewing your video from Yonkers, Westchester county. I can’t tell you how many times over 30 years I traveled the Taconic to visit my sister and her husband and took the Noxon Road exit to make my way to 44/55 in Poughkeepsie. It wouldn’t matter where on earth you are from, but I am proud that you are from Lagrangeville and I’m secretly crediting your strength to being a New Yorker. More than that, I am so happy for you that you survived and most proud for your intelligence about learning why things may have gone wrong, and the maturity to learn these lessons for the future. I am also grateful for the rescuers, the entire hospital staff, to your awesome mom, and to your good friend for watching after you. Journey on brother, and journey carefully.

[@susancochrane8397]

Shout out to the Hudson Valley!

[@fifteenthfret]

Woohoo!@@susancochrane8397

[@atmywhitson]

Well stated 🙏🏻🦋

[@fifteenthfret]

@@atmywhitson how kind of you

[@markanthonycoliinson873]

What a lovely fellow. I had a close brush with death in my early 20s, too (not quite as harrowing as his) and it had a similar effect on my outlook. You certainly start to prioritize more sensibly. I'm still deaf as a result of my head injuries but I was so thankful to be alive when the rest of me got better I finished my art degree and just went travelling and meeting people for years. I hope he recovers as fully as possible and has a wonderful life. I'm sure he will.

[@shelbdizz]

PA/NY rockhound here ❤ glad youre still with us! 💎

[@victorchinchillvas]

Beautiful story, beautiful outcome. Most of Inyo County Search And Rescue are volunteers with other professions, truly giving back. Enjoy life brother, it is the ultimate gift.🙏🏽✌🏽💚

[@OzarkPursuit7883]

I love that mom came straight out, thats love. What an amazing story.

[@mrsgrandma3]

Kevin, you mentioned many reflections that you are having including thoughts of the chest compression and entire trauma .... sounds like you are really energized ....PLEASE ACKNOWNEDGE this has been a huge trauma (and to your friend as well) many need Trauma Therapy after such HUGE LIFE EVENT ... Keep on keepin' on ....Thanks Mark

[@thenicolemartinez]

💯 EMDR would be wonderful for a one off trauma like this.

[@tame3119]

Yeah you can hear the shaking in his voice once he starts in. I've been through a similar trauma at 21 it's been nine years and I hear the same thing in my voice when I revisit it... just that adrenaline dump of it all over

[@mrsgrandma3]

@@tame3119 YUP! Same...Glad you replied ...Be Well!!!

[@IndependentThnkr-v7c]

The 7 P's...Prior Preparation and Planning Prevents Piss-Poor Performance. Thank you Mark for allowing Kevin to share his story. Kevin shared a few good lessons. Operate using the buddy system, don't fall asleep, don't panic, have a good comm system and remember the 7 P's. If your lucky enough to be alive and coherent...thank the recue teams, EMTs, doctors, nurses. Tell family and friends that you love them often. Get out there and enjoy life! Kevin, so glad your alive to continue on and share your valuable lessons! 😊

[@TheScotian82]

Possibly the most well deserved spoonsorship ever. Congrats Mark!

[@meganngeorge]

Climb on, Kevin, climb on. You’re destined for great things.

[@ginger8304]

I loved hearing Kevin’s story. He is an amazing storyteller. His experience has everything that would make a great book and a movie. So, Kevin - if you read this, try to find a publisher who will connect you with a writer to help you capture your amazing story. Use the money to become a nurse or paramedic to help fulfill your dream of giving back. Making a record of your experience can help you work through the pain, shock and fear that you experienced. May God bless you and keep you safe.

[@ToolFan68]

Kevin, when you talked about having children, I smiled, because finding a wonderful woman, and having incredible children is the most fulfilling thing that’s ever happened in my life. That feeling of having help come in and rescue you is the same feeling I have had from my wife during hard times in my life and I have done the same for her. We have in turn done the same for our children. It’s about paying it forward and having a successful marriage and family. Yes, raising children and maintaining a healthy marriage can at times be tough, but the rewards and the wonderful memories outweigh those occasional tough times by magnitudes. Our western society and the propagandist running the show are doing everything they can to destroy the family but there are a few of us out here that refuse to get divorced, refuse to abandon our children, and refuse to let the world mock and destroy that most precious gift, life. You said it yourself. Life is precious. Give life to your own children, nurture them, stay faithful to your marriage and you will have accomplished your greatest achievement. (I’ve been married 37 years and have 3 awesome children and now 5 beautiful grandchildren and an untold number of incredible, funny, heartwarming memories). Best of luck to you!

[@toebiter69]

tell me who the hell is trying to "destroy the family"💀

[@russfrancis4220]

The definition of satan is: Anything in opposition to the CREATOR YHWH and his plan. YHWH CREATES LIFE. A healthy, happy fulfillment of this plan includes a family. Father, Mother, child. This whole worldy system is geared to dismantle that institution.

[@nathan19912007]

Great comment sir

[@jmarrocco]

Amen! Thanks for the great comment!!

[@nwicconsultants6640]

@@russfrancis4220 perfect reply. Ironically toebiter uses the the phrase "who the hell". Ears that cannot hear.

[@robmut1357]

Amazing story! God bless those emergency responders who risk their own lives to save strangers. They have my utmost respect.

[@loveli420]

Mind-blowing. Kevin, you're a total stranger but I love your attitude through this entire conversation and I'm so glad you're alive.

[@ItsNickeela]

I can tell he’s extremely grateful to be alive. I hope he continues to use the lessons he learned for good and to help others. Maybe one day he can be one of those guys that saved him, and that he thought were so badass

[@melissatress7260]

Kevin, I’m glad you’re here! Thank You! ❤️🤗❤️

[@MsQuickSilver]

To say that listening to Kevin's hiking accident has kept me on the edge of my seat, glued to my screen, is an understatement. It's nothing short of a miracle that 'cool as a cucumber' Kevin had the fortitude to endure this crushing pain for nearly 8 hours (which must've felt like an eternity to him and his friend), remain calm so that he wouldn't bleed to death, and get to survive this incredible ordeal. I believe Kevin's story would make a hell of a nail-biting movie. 😱 Kudos to his wonderful hiking buddy (who quite literally saved his life), to all the Search & Rescue teams (who put their own lives at risk in order to save his), and to all the doctors, nurses and medical staff who took such good care of him. 👍 Thanks, Mark, for this truly enlightening and uplifting interview. If possible, I'd like to get to hear Kevin's buddy's side of the story. And to Kevin, if you ever read this, I'm so happy you're alive, young man. I wish you a speedy and full recovery, and the best of luck in your career and future endeavors. With your new outlook on life, I believe you're bound to do great things. Take care and be safe. 😉

[@ElixeoFlores]

Brought me to tears so many times during his story. When I was in highschool (I'm 67 now), my buddies and I were at a friend's house smoking weed. We started recounting to one another, our near death experiences. At 17 years old, it was surprising that we all had a story to recount! After we had all shared our stories, there was a brief moment of silence and then one of my friends said, "you know what man? I think we all did die!" We were all like, what are you talking about? And he was like, "Yeah, don't you see? Our conscious minds moved to a different reality where we survived! But that old reality? We actually died there. Our friends and family had to deal with our death in that reality but we moved on!" We were all stoned so needless to say, this idea had a profound impact on us! I only mention this because Kevin was talking about how life after surviving, seemed like a dream.

[@timmywitty1432]

I have had a very similar thought / experience.

[@abelmcguire1951]

The fact that the sages of India and other ancient texts have always said "Life is a dream." To know that we are constantly changing living in a so-called reality in thoughts as we think them to be. The dichotomy is to know in a situation as vital as this story line if we fall to sleep, we die. Yet in our nightly sleep we also go into a similar dream world to have an out of body experience that seems real. That is why upon waking we have an exquisite opportunity to greet yourself and imagine being somewhere else and say... how awesome to be here once again earthbound and awake ... or am I? As Kevin said in so many words am I really here" and teachings tell us no more than we want or need to be, it's your own make-shift illusion to awaken from daily. So why not begin now by dropping anxiety of future stories and love your god given breathing self for just being you. (Autobiography of a Yogi) Paramahasa Yogananda.

[@pinkpugginz]

I was crying too!!

[@TweetyPAK7]

It's called a "weed theory."

[@Lilith8177]

This was heart-warming. Thanks to all those first responders, pilots, doctors, nurses….

[@javedk]

This is the type of dude who in a few years could be a millionaire even though he currently lives in a van.

[@IgorMironov-rq4ye]

Right.. nothing but a pipe dream

[@VK-uh5jz]

Fellow rock hunter here. I appreciate the heightened awareness you've spread. I will be a lot more careful when going out there. Glad youre ok

[@TweetyPAK7]

I was wondering what rocks he was finding. 🤔

[@cathyhackett2702]

Great story! Love the part where he says, Josh has a bad back, and he was sick at the time, but we were stoked. My goodness, such dedication.

[@firebreathinggarage2117]

I turned 66 20 days ago. and have experienced several life changing accidents because of the jobs I've had down through time, I'm glad you have been enlightened and still have the capacity to understand the enormity of your situation.

[@shelbyprice7790]

God has been watching you both

[@idab6864]

​@@mainthug4167I was watching men use a wood chipper in front of my place recently, those things are no joke! So scary. Glad you're ok

[@GeeZane]

This would be a great story for “ I Survived “

[@Nunyubeez]

I miss that show!

[@kevinb7126]

That show really was unnerving more the serial killer stuff. That show showed the darkest sides of human nature.

[@Hippie_chic_at_heart]

I love that show!! Wish they’d bring another season 🤞🏻

[@erinodonnell6719]

I watch that show its on pst.

[@star0084]

Totally!

[@evafigueroa1009]

Genuine guy. So lucky and blessed to come out of an accident like that. You can hear the gratitude in his voice for everyone and all the things in his life. Awesome storytelling. Thank you for sharing. Prayers.

[@AliciaM5555]

I'm so glad you made it Kevin. ❤

[@lisablanchard8915]

I think your interviews with survivors helps me to realize the important things in life...even though I try to remain conscious ,to live my life of mindfully and with gratitude daily, I thank you for your podcast, all the hard work you are doing to continuously a remind your viewers that we are all passing through and every day is a gift!

[@rikidik5352]

First of all, I'm so Happy you are alive. This is ABSOLUTELY the very best video you've EVER done Mark. And dude "Kevin" you are so meant to be here. Don't stop exploring, the universe deserves you. Good Luck in all you do !!!😊

[@roberthernandez3902]

Honestly please please always take a buddy it will save your life 🙏 Stay safe out there

[@Preacher2628]

His buddy should come on here and tell his part of his story. The guy is a hero. Both these guys are super tuff😊

[@alireid5874]

And the SAR Team! A reunion would be awesome

[@nocomment2468]

He’s so open and honest about his experience. Thought-provoking (and harrowing) interview

[@chinkle2166]

That story was amazing. at first I didn't know if it was going to be good but man one of the best stories I've heard on here.

[@debrawalters9746]

Kevin, I’ve been a nurse for 25 years and your story has touched me in a profound way. I hope you know that you are meant to do good things because of the fact that you survived. You will use this experience to change the lives of others in some way. Good luck to you and God bless you.

[@PinHeadThePopeOfHell]

Your God is weak. Your God is cruel. Your God is Narcissistic. Your God can't stop women and children from being raped. Your God can't stop wars in his name. Your God admits there are other Gods in his 1st Commandment. Your God can't stop hunger. Your God cant stop cancer. Your God can't stop murder. Your God can't stop aborting thousands of babies every day. Your God can't show his face. Your God can't. Or maybe he won't. Or maybe he doesn't know. Regardless of why your God can't, won't or doesn't know, he has done nothing about these things. And since he is so weak, why do you worship him as a God? Your God is not real, and you are weak for believing in a Middle Eastern Myth.

[@FriendlieGhost]

It’s such a life changing experience to go through something like this and come out alive to see another day. You can hear the emotion in his voice as he tried to explain the story but is still dumb founded. There is a spiritual experience that happens when you get this close to leaving this earth.

[@Priscilla0681]

Phenomenal survival story. Dude told his story so well. Would love more of these. I think he would be an amazing member of any search & rescue team.

[@kevinlynch2248]

Kevin, I am so glad that you are alive to share your incredible story with us. Absolutely incredible!!!

[@TheZinminjr]

My 83 year old mom just died 3 days ago - and your story hit me. Live your life. Get paid to Hike. Get paid to Rescue. Pay it forward. Begin.

[@a.marvellehoneyman4560]

I’m sorry to hear of your moms passing. ❤️🤗sending you love and peace and prayers.

[@miroz5824]

Pretty crazy he lives to tell the tale! I've seen, heard and read some gruesome stories of climbing accidents throughout my life, it is always mind blowing what people are able to sustain when under stress and their lives being endangered! Most of us are not aware of our limits until put to test! Thank you for this one Mark! Kevin - do go ahead and look into becoming S&R professional if you love the mountains and nature. As you said, people doing this are awesome and partially doing what they love! 💗

[@janel7700]

What a great appreciative kid. Keep embracing the world and this life Kevin, the world is lucky to have you!

[@nicholaskoenig3106]

When that Dr asked you if you knew who he was, I just cried. Then when your mom decided to come out in such a hurry. Why all the tears? Great story. I love the mtns and feel like I could have had the same trauma happen. Makes me think twice. Thanks again..

[@nancykaufman1632]

❤

[@MsCharity333]

Amazing story. I especially liked when you were talking about your future & possibly becoming a part of a rescue team. (You have a lot of hiking experience, you'd be an amazing addition to any team..) What struck me though, was when you said "give back to others." I took it as in general. No matter what you do, anyone would be grateful to have your help, no matter what career you pursue.

[@herbiegobananas1744]

Beautiful story, brought a tear to my eye. Life is so precious but we go through it taking so much for granted

[@josephhopeless829]

This is Eerie, man…A few years ago I “broke” my artery but on my left leg and nearly bled Out. He almost lost his leg, the surgeon warned me they very well could possibly have to Amputate. He waited 8 hrs pinned under A boulder, I got surgery for 8 hrs and have a gnarly scar there now; Thank god, my mom ran outta there, bursting In tears when doc said we very well might have to amputate. Our stories r like mirrored Kevin; so glad u made it and we Both kept out legs(lol I was so outta it I do t think it even really computed my fever was 1006-7 so completely delirious. God bless Kevin thx for the awesome story and thank u Mark, always bringing the heat. Thank god good ppl still exist. Say it constantly, but thank you Mark for all that you do . Love this channel And community. All beautiful souls nearly, far as I’ve seen. God bless u all.

[@Cognitoman]

Glad you didn’t loose your leg. Good shit bro

[@PinHeadThePopeOfHell]

Your God is weak. Your God is cruel. Your God is Narcissistic. Your God can't stop women and children from being raped. Your God can't stop wars in his name. Your God admits there are other Gods in his 1st Commandment. Your God can't stop hunger. Your God cant stop cancer. Your God can't stop murder. Your God can't stop aborting thousands of babies every day. Your God can't show his face. Your God can't. Or maybe he won't. Or maybe he doesn't know. Regardless of why your God can't, won't or doesn't know, he has done nothing about these things. And since he is so weak, why do you worship him as a God? Your God is not real, and you are weak for believing in a Middle Eastern Myth.

[@Toonces666]

Kevin, I am so happy that you survived, and thank you for the reminder that stressing over money is a dead end. This a timely reminder for me and a lot of other people. Many blessings to you, brother! Rock on, but not under. Laugh.

[@celinemccutcheon1988]

Rock on but not under....very well said Toonces

[@anthonyflores659]

You can hear and see the anxiety in his face when he’s describing things …. Thank god you made it !!!

[@secondrickamendment4770]

"Be prepared, You don't know when you are going to come across somebody who needs your help" I selfishly have never thought about it like that. I always try to be prepared for myself. Multiple fire starters, Food Clothing ETC, but to be able to provide Aid to someone in need is a whole lot more important. Thank you for perspective.

[@amyomeara2515]

You did a fine job telling this story and I’m glad you survived. I’ve got a 12 yr old adventure-boy and will let him watch this so your mistake isn’t in vain. Thanks for sharing.

[@Yesitsmandisa]

Surgeons are AMAZING. thank God for his grace as well. Bless you Kevin

[@flanno]

It’s the 5 P’s; preparation prevents piss poor performance. Stoked you made it out bud, keep on thriving 🤙

[@mickeyfried9821]

THE MORAL OF THE STORY... THANK EVERY FIRST RESPONDER AND SOLDIER YOU SEE!!!!! Say, "thank you for doing what you do" and watch how they react. It moves them. It will move you as well. Never will they take those words lightly. ❤ You have a special friend too, Dude. Heal fast!

[@jaydawgheyyallz8615]

Glad you still here with us!

[@nephieJ]

He has such a presence..im not sure why..it is fresh..wholesome...and not to forget he is adorqble! I'm so happy that you are still here.

[@cathy800]

Glad you survived that Kevin. Your friend Josh is truly a hero. I know there were many more heros that saved you that night but with out Josh, you most likely would have been totally crushed when they found you. My brother , who i just lost , was first a firemen, then a paramedic for 23 straight years. His heart was so in what he did, he saved people when he wasnt working. When he retired the first time, he went into a dump truck bussiness and when the towers were hit in New York, he felt he had to go there and do all he could to help, for free, as a careing American. We lost him to a cancer that was probably caused by him going there just to help others. He was a hero, like some of those men were, finding you in the dark and Josh. I am grateful to them all for saveing your life.

[@jodie3278]

Your brother was an Angel on 🌎 ❤ 🙏

[@cindyluewho4086]

I am a better person because of your story! Thank you Kevin!

[@zeitgeist888]

Proper prior planning prevents piss poor performance. Glad he made it out alive and changed for the better in mindset. Thank God for the friend and rescue people.

[@tmk_2544]

When I'm going through a rough patch, your channel reminds me that people have gone through things 100 times worse and made it through, so why shouldn't I..... thank you for your work

[@trppytoes7506]

We need more stories like this.

[@apriliniguez3661]

CRMC- Fresno is a wonderful trauma hospital ❤. April 2021 I woke up with a stiff neck and when I turned my head i crushed my C6/7 and instantly became paralyzed 💔.I'm so grateful for dr Deis .I'm happy he still has his legs 🙏

[@MG-zu4st]

OMG that is so frightening! ..just from waking up with a stiff neck. Crazy.

[@apriliniguez3661]

@@MG-zu4st yes they couldn’t explain why it happened. Made it harder to accept it happened. But I’m trying every day to better my quality of life 🙏🏼

[@giljuwu9728]

I'm very happy that Mark finally got a company willing to sponsor his channel.

[@nicwilliams8623]

I’m not I hate being interrupted 😂😂 (jokes)

[@Day-ZDuke]

I can’t imagine that he would have trouble finding a sponsor; the channel has almost 6 million subs, and there’s sponsors on channel with just as “sensitive” topics I think it’s more that Mark didn’t want / need to have a sponsor initially, but KZbin has demonetized the channel to such a degree that Mark can’t support the channel from just subscriptions alone

[@chilleycheesetoes3225]

also a follow up with kevin would be really cool in six months or something. i'd love to hear more on how his outlook on life has changed and how his recovery's going

[@taylorblackstock5329]

Glad your alive! Praise those Emt, doctors, nurses etc.

[@joelarama]

An incredible story, an incredible friend! We all need a Josh in our lives! Thank you for sharing Kevin. ☺️

[@lyndajamrozik4786]

You such a cute young man . Glad you recovered and are actually going to be more safety conscious . You have great friend . Lucky you 🎉

[@lalalu1275]

So glad you are okay! Thank you for sharing your story. I too am an avid backpacker. You have absolved me from any guilt when I carry bit more weight in the name of preparedness. 😊 Prayers your way for full mind and body healing. Your life is just beginning.😊

[@tonyhoffman3309]

Would be great to hear an interview with his buddy who was with him. So amazing that he survived.

[@mixinitupNY]

Kevin would be great with educating and training young hikers in safety and packing their kits for min overnight as he mentioned m, it is so important ( in CA or the HV). Kevin you have a wonderfully clear storytelling ability- a hiking book/guide book would be so perfect for you and your friend to do together. Go for it! 🤙🏼also to your dear friend, you did amazing w that boulder and caring for Kevin! I hope that experience shows you your next path too 🤙🏼

[@juliemackenzie1978]

He is lucky to be alive. Always go on an adventure with a buddy. Never do it alone. It was his friend who kept him alive. There is a life lesson with everything. He just used 1 cat life. It's amazing how life becomes very clear & what is truly important...when your life might end. Thank you for sharing this video with us. 👍🇨🇦😊 Have a great life young man. My best friend's son died in an avalanche about 3 years ago, mountain climbing & hiking in Jasper National Park in Canada. Him & his buddy (who was a guide) both died in that avalanche. Sadly...💔🥺😕 No one is promised tomorrow...not even you youngins'. Stay safe. 👍😊 He learned a valuable lesson...so young in life. It is a pivotal moment for him. He was blessed with this event...in a miraculous way. Learning to appreciate life...is a gift. He has a great friend in Josh. We call those "root" friends. Leaves, branches & roots...Josh is a keeper. You're lucky if you have a handful of "root" friends.

[@teejay3272]

The always go with a friend thing? That's nonsense and it's fed to people who aren't experienced. Probably good that it is given how foolish humans can be. But "always" isn't close to being applicable across the board.

[@AllsWell77]

​@@teejay3272Arrogance like yours can also cost lives.

[@teejay3272]

@@AllsWell77 You don't get it. Because you don't do it. Probably best to stay inside. But just to toss it out there, I live at elevation in the mountains and am in the wilderness most every day. Four seasons, day and night, typically alone. I can do that because arrogance has NO place in my world out there.. My lane is respect and humility. That's why I can do it. So if you do ever decide to take your first real hike in the real wilderness that's good advice for you to remember.

[@AllsWell77]

@@teejay3272 No man is an island. You pass out or a branch falls and wacks you in the head, its best for someone yo know what you are up to. And yup, was a big dumb dumb and got lost with a friend in a very remote part of Colorado. It was onviously not life threatening, but it was a tricky several hours of working our way back to humanity. And it felt like we dodged a disaster. So yes, I am a greenhorn. True But maybe don't be alone so much. Shit does happen. I wish you well! But I also wish you some buddies.

[@teejay3272]

@@AllsWell77 I appreciate what you're saying. I really do. But my point, and strong position, is that unnecessary fear keeps people away from something that can be a life changing experience. If an accident happens the media will run with it and the outcome is that people equate the wilderness with danger. And it's not true. What they don't mention is the person or people who had something bad happen are most often unprepared, over confident and lacking in experience. It's why people are afraid of bears, cougars and wolves. There's not much reason for it other than fear sells. I just don't subscribe to fear. As I said, respect, humility and experience is the key to being out safely. A branch falling on my head? Well that's why I keep an eye open for widow makers when it's windy. The danger comes from driving to the trailhead. Not the trail. I'm out almost daily above 7K in four seasons. More than half of that is off trail and/or at night. When I'm miles away from anyone that's where I feel the safest. I'm connected to the environment. Just like any animal out there because I'm an animal too. If something goes south I'll either roll with it or I won't. I've most definitely screwed up but it's all on me so I pay the penalty. And I've paid. I'm ok with that. It influences risk/reward which is ego-driven. If I feel something is sketchy I adjust and live to hike another day. I don't need to impress anyone. And I'm definitely not saying it's right for everyone. But it's very right for some. Again, I do understand and appreciate what you're saying but it's the blanket "nature is dangerous" stuff that fires me up a little. Because it's not true. Nature just is. People make it dangerous with their choices. Many just don't have a conception of life without guardrails. Or humility. And that's a shame. I just don't like the idea of people avoiding an extraordinary world due to misconceptions driven by fear. Because what I've learned over my many decades on the planet is that a lot of people gravitate towards fear and then that metastasizes. If people want to limit themselves then that's on them. That's a personal choice. Whatever. But it's those who may WANT to be out there, but are afraid because of what they've been told by those who may lean towards being afraid, is where I feel a need to offer up another perspective. Nothing to fear. Just some things to respect. Thanks and Happy Trails.