You just hate to go to work some days.

[Gary D.]

Twenty years ago this Friday (042409), we had a very tragic boat accident. The result was three dead and one 13 year old survivor.

To make a long story short they went through the South Channel Dam in a boat. I added a link so you can see the South Channel at about a 50% flow.
Spokane River Project Relicensing: Post Falls

A lot of good came from that accident and Rescue/Recovery operation but I am dreading tomorrow. The very few of us still remaining at the SheriffÃÔ Department and others we could locate are meeting the lone survivor for lunch. These are rougher than the original operation.

Gary D.

 

[Diver0001]

I can't say that I fully comprehend how heavy your job can be, Gary, but I'll say this.

Last November my dive team recovered what we thought was a corpse during a rescue and a miracle happened. He made it and he's well on his way to making a full recovery.

Meeting him and exchanging stories/comparing notes with him was a thoroughly therapeutic moment for all of us. I would suggest telling him about the changes and the good that came from his accident. It will make him feel like it didn't happen for nothing.

And look past the accident to the person. Ask how it has changed his life. Let him tell you his story. It could be a much more positive experience than you think.

Good luck.

R..

 

[Gary D.]

I can't say that I fully comprehend how heavy your job can be, Gary, but I'll say this.

Last November my dive team recovered what we thought was a corpse during a rescue and a miracle happened. He made it and he's well on his way to making a full recovery.

Meeting him and exchanging stories/comparing notes with him was a thoroughly therapeutic moment for all of us. I would suggest telling him about the changes and the good that came from his accident. It will make him feel like it didn't happen for nothing.

And look past the accident to the person. Ask how it has changed his life. Let him tell you his story. It could be a much more positive experience than you think.

Good luck.

R..

Good job on everyone's part.

I totally agree with you and that will happen. But I just like to fade into the woodwork when an operation is over. If this happened with all 260 of them I'd be in the looney bin weaving baskets.

Gary D.

 

[Gary D.]

It was tough at first but then it became a wonderful meeting. Here is the link in the CdA Press who blew the photo caption. It's Bob and I hugging in the photo.
Closure at last - Coeur d'Alene Press Newspaper - Local and National News - Kootenai County, Idaho

We will stay in contact now.

Gary

 

[Diver0001]

Nice job, Gary

 

[CheddarChick]

For all you guys do, over and over, with very little recognition...Thank You

 

[mbalmr]

For all you guys do, over and over, with very little recognition...Thank You

Agreed,
I hope one day I can do as much good in this world as you folks do. My hat is off to all the dive teams who are there through so many tough situations. Without your thankless efforts thousands of families would still be wondering "what if..." I was a funeral director and know first hand of the good you all do. Please accept my sincere gratitude for all your dedication.

Respectfully,
GK