Like all of us, experienced hiker Bekah Cork (32) hoped she’d never need to be rescued. But on a recent trip to the Highlands that very fear came true. From one 1000-miler to another, what’s it like?
‘We were on the ridge between two Munros near the Glenfinnan Viaduct (west of Fort William). We were just 15 minutes from the second summit when I slipped. We were on a path, on flat ground, and I’m not too sure what I slipped on. I just remember my leg going and then hearing a crack as I was falling, and then it hurting a lot!
I’d broken and dislocated my left ankle. But I was lucky – it was a dry, clear, warm day. We had lots of layers with us. I was with two very sensible friends who knew what they were doing including a doctor who knew what to check and, therefore, what to tell mountain rescue. I remember my friends getting organised, helping my bag off my back and moving me somewhere safer.
Mountain rescue came faster than we expected. The rescuer was really lovely and reassuring, especially when I got upset because I felt stupid for needing their help. They had to cut off my boot and socks so they could strap up my leg. I was given Penthrox to deal with the pain then winched up from the ridge into the helicopter.
I remember feeling very silly and crying a lot. It hit me what had happened and it was, ‘Oh gosh – I’m in a pickle – I need to get back at work; I have an awful lot going on; my friends are having to wait for me; we’re having to organise moving the cars. But just for one moment I remember looking out of the window and thinking, ‘Goodness me, this view is amazing!’
I’ve always admired and respected mountain rescue and hoped never to need them. But when I did, they really were the best thing ever. Fast, skilled and kind. They’re all volunteers, but meeting them you’d never know it. It’s amazing what they do.
I can’t wait until I’m better and get back to the mountains! But it could have been a lot worse if we’d not been prepared, the weather had been bad, or we’d had to wait longer. I’d say to others, embrace the extra muscles you’ll build carrying extra water, food, layers and emergency kit – it’s essential and you never know when you’ll need it.’
● Mountain rescue is staffed by over 3500 volunteers and relies on donations for its funding. Please give what you can today!
