Rescue Me ~ Behind The Scenes of Search and Rescue by Cathalynn Labonte-Smith

 

Rescue Me ~ Behind The Scenes of Search and Rescue is an amazing behind the scenes look at the many dedicated search and rescue volunteers who risk their lives to save others. In this fascinating oral history, author Cathalynn Labonte-Smith, profiles forty dedicated Search and Rescue (SAR) volunteers and some of the harrowing cases that have forever affected their lives. The men, women, dogs and horses that comprise the SAR teams across North America work in any terrain and in all conditions simply for the satisfaction in knowing they make a difference. Labonte-Smith presents seventy cases in this well researched book.  Tales of avalanche victims and those lost in caves, deserts and mountains will leave readers shaking their head while learning valuable lessons in wilderness safety and preparation. There are also heartbreaking stories of missing children, homicide victims and the casualties of plane crashes, ground searches and underwater recovery that often require the quick action, courage and dedication of SAR members. And there are the stories of the SAR members themselves; those who dedicate their entire lives to search and rescue, those who are forever changed by the experiences they have gone through and sadly those who have lost their own lives during rescue attempts. This book will leave readers with a new appreciation for the many volunteers that lend their skills and tirelessly train to step up to the plate when the call goes out that someone is in crisis.

Inspired by her husband Stephen and his SAR cohorts who had the determination to stick with their training during the pandemic, Labonte-Smith writes with great compassion and respect, bringing understanding and experience to the subject matter. Readers will initially delight in the authors own personal story of search and rescue as an impulsive toddler escaping the watchful eye of her grandmother. Such a narrative provides an excellent backdrop for the following historical and present day information of search and rescue operations in North America, highlighting the truths and debunking the myths that often surround public misperceptions. Labonte-Smith's support and commitment to search and rescue efforts is clearly evident as a portion of the proceeds from the sale of Rescue Me will be donated to SAR units that are in need or underfunded

Steve has been my personal hero for over thirty years, and now through SAR I share his heroism with strangers who are having the worst day of their lives. I know that he's with the rest of his team and they take care of each other. 

When Stephen returns from a rescue, we rejoice. When he returns from a recovery, I marvel at how he and his teammates can do what they do. 

Though Rescue Me is an easy to read book, it is important to note that readers will be exposed to stories of survival. For me, it was highly engaging, sometimes shocking, and provided me with an opportunity to reflect on my own wilderness adventures and preparedness. For others, the stories may be triggering. However, all the cases that are presented reinforce the notion that we are all susceptible to danger and in potential need of help from complete strangers whether we are outdoor enthusiasts or everyday citizens going about our business. Take for example the story of Sheila, a female black Labrador retriever who fell over a 30 meter precipice into a rugged canyon. SAR members rappelled into the canyon, harnessed the dog and ascended to safety while holding the trembling canine in their arms. Other cases are not as triumphant like that of 66 year old Geraldine Largay, an experienced hiker who became impossibly lost in dense brush after stepping off the trail to "answer the call of nature". After her husband stopped receiving text messages hundreds of SAR team members and K9 teams, helicopters and game wardens searched the area for three weeks without a single clue being found. More than two years later a forester who was working in the area discovered an abandoned camp, backpack and a sleeping bag containing the skeletal remains of Geraldine. Next to her a bottle of water and a diary detailing her last days, sealed in a waterproof bag.  To say the least, the stories are inspirational and the author does an excellent job at capturing that emotion and exposing the dangers that rescue teams face when a call is made. 

Rescue Me ~ Behind The Scenes of Search and Rescue by Cathalynn Labonte-Smith is a must-read book. The real life stories will be cause for reflection as you plan your next outdoor adventure and the tips shared by the dedicated SAR members may one day save your life. Rescue Me is a Caitlin Press publication.