Neat story out of New Mexico: A woman who had been out in the woods for five weeks was rescued, weeks after the search for her was called off. Carolyn Dorn had planned to go camping for two weeks, and had enough supplies to last that long. But she got stuck on the far side of a raging river and couldn’t get out. She survived by drinking water from the river, building fires, and staying positive. Fortunately, some hikers happened upon her and were able to get help.
This reminded me of a book I read not long ago, Deep Survival by Laurence Gonzales. I reviewed it here. Gonzales discussed the psychology of survival, and I think Dorn could fill a whole chapter. She did everything right — she didn’t panic, she didn’t jump in the river and get her clothes all wet, and she didn’t waste any precious energy. Most importantly, she was prepared — she was an experienced camper who knew what to do out there. I hope I never have to be outside for two weeks, let alone five, but I hope I have the mindset of someone like Carolyn Dorn instead of the mindset of this guy.