Killing Kogelmann

Location: Nevados de Chillan, Chile -Otto’s Chair

August 23, 2014

Skied over semi-exposed rock (aka shark fin).

Summersaulted into another rock splitting open my forehead to crown.

Sustained a cervical 1 fracture & concussion (cracked in 4 places)

Had it broke, it would have pierced the artery to my brain causing death

2 fellow skiers applied pressure using my hat and the elastic from a GoPro.

Anther skier went for help.

Stabilized my neck while waiting for the ski patrol.

Patrol took me down on a sled while stabilizing my neck at the same time.

Pandemonium at the patrol clinic as doctor had no clue what to do.

1 1/2 hr ambulance ride to Clinic de Chillan

Medic vomited over me in a clear plastic bag en route

No English & wouldn’t let friend/translator in back

Body & neck not stable during transit almost rupturing artery again.

20 stitches right away

24 hours strapped to a gurney on floor causing extreme bedsores and nobody spoke to me

Insurance kicked in and I was air-lifted by private plane to Santiago

I was dropped outside of the plane almost rupturing vertebrae again.

Examined by Dr right away and was given proper medicine to dull pain

Trouble breathing due to the gurney situation and meds

Next day did a full MRI and X-rays.

No operation needed thankfully!

Last 10 days physical therapy 3 Xs/dy, eating healthy, examined daily by Dr Otayza, monitored for vitals and breathing (meds and time on floor caused abnormal breathing) by nurses round the clock. More X-rays and removal of stitches.

Best hospital I’ve ever been to an I’m a regular everywhere

Diagnosis: Cervical 1 fracture, concussion and serious ass chap.

Breathing returned to normal, walking, cleared to fly 12 days later

$500 out of pocket

Lesson learned: Wear your helmet and purchase travelers insurance when abroad.