TLC

Of course, we didn’t know right away that they were EMTs. They looked like normal people. As we climbed the steps to the Johns Brook Lodge (JBL) porch a friendly voice called out, “Hey, how was your hike?” Mr. K told his story. “Well, we have four EMTs here,” she replied.

It seems that these EMTs, when they are not pulling people out of burning buildings, resuscitating unconscious heart attack victims, locating lost souls in the wilderness, and teaching back country skills to city slickers, relax by hauling their packs into the woods and climbing crazy mountains. Some people just don’t know when to quit!

First EMT looked at Mr. K’s shoulder and clavicle, poked around a bit, and asked him a few questions. He assessed that the collarbone likely was broken. He was somewhat surprised Mr. K wasn’t in more pain. He advised us to get to a trauma hospital in Albany as soon as possible. That seemed like good advice. But the “as soon as possible” part seemed a little challenging. Getting back to our vehicle in The Garden would require the three-and-a-half mile hike out. Then we would have to hop in the van and drive for two hours to get to the emergency room. And who knows how long it would take to see the right medical professional?

It was already late in the day. We were tired, wet, and hungry. We decided to stay at the lodge, eat a good dinner, get a good night’s sleep, eat a good breakfast, then be on our way when we were fresh.

Let me tell you about the meals at JBL. For dinner guests were served pork barbeque, fake vegetarian pork barbeque, rolls, macaroni and cheese, cole slaw, steamed broccoli, and for dessert spice cake with a maple glaze. Breakfast was scrambled eggs, bacon, homemade biscuits, and pancakes. I ask you, do you eat better than that at home?

We received excellent care at JBL. First, from First EMT who made the tentative diagnosis. Second, from Second EMT who offered numerous times to carry Mr. K’s pack down the next day if it hurt too much to carry it himself. Third, from the staff at JBL who contacted a ranger and learned that she agreed with our course of action. Fourth, from said ranger who volunteered to walk out with Mr. K if he wanted, or even cart him away in an ATV. 

Who knew this was such a good place to crack a bone?

Rested and sated we prepared to leave but not after we thanked everyone. It was touching and comforting to receive so much support, and we are forever grateful. 

Turns out Mr. K felt he could manage on his own. Tough guy, eh? We strapped on our packs, grabbed our trekking poles (two for me, one for him), and were on our way.

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