This is not the way to fame! I actually had my fall before the last rappel. There was a creek running between two boulders and I tried to jump across it and I didn't make it. I got my leg jammed between the two boulders and didn't realize I'd been hurt it till I stood up. I rappelled slowly with the busted leg/ankle. We had to get downstream to notify the rangers. Nobody told me you couldn't walk with a broken ankle. The overnight campout was comfortable given the circumstances. I marveled at the beauty surrounding me. The moon rose over the rocks, then in the morning the sun started to rise and light up the canyon. Light bounced off the rocks and gave off a golden hue. I wish I could go back and take a picture of the little waterfall and pool, and the big flat boulder where I was airlifted by helicopter. The five minute ride dangling from a rope is etched in my brain forever. It was an incredible view from the air of the canyon. I may have to go back there and charter an airplane when I'm healthy . Anyway I'll get a hard cast next Tuesday and I'll get around better. Debbie On Mon Jul 9 10:51 , Joe Bauman <bau@desnews.com> sent:

Hi Friends, I've been talking by email with our friend Debbie Whitaker, aka Astrodeb. For months she planned an expedition to the Subway in Zion National Park, which requires a reservation and a long wait. Anyway, last week she finally went. But on the last rappel, she slipped on the rocks and broke her ankle in two places and broke her fibula. She managed to keep hiking for another mile and a half, then realized she would not be able to get back out. She was rescued by rangers, who gave her morphine, which greatly helped. She still enjoyed the scenery and now is safe. When I asked if I could notify the group, she sent this reply:

Sure, that would be fine. I broke my ankle in two places and fractured the lower

fibula. The pain is less than it was a few days ago. I can back off the pain pills

a little. The knees are beginning to itch also. No real damage there, just some

abrasions. I'll be able to get around better when I get a hard cast. I'm healing

slowing but I have the new Harry Potter book to keep me busy. You may want to

include this in your e-mail.

http://www.nps.gov/zion/parknews/injured-hiker-rescued-from-the-subway.htm

Debbie

I'm sure she would appreciate a note as she convalesces. Her email is astrodeb@beyondbb.com. -- Joe

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