Last week I took a vacation to Glacier National Park. The trip was full of hiking and beautiful views of nature. On May 28th, my last full day of hiking my friend and I were on the Grinnell Glacier trail. We were about 100 yards from the end of the trail where there was a snow field. My friend stayed back and I followed two hikers to the end, I took in the views, some pictures and about 10min later began heading back across the snow along the trail. About halfway down i noticed a smaller grizzly bear that was past me. I immediately checked my surroundings and no more than 15 feet above me on the mountainside was a larger grizzly. I did as you’re told, I alerted the bear, but at that point I was so close it likely frightened the bear. As soon as it saw me it charged down and attacked me. I threw my arm up, it bit my arm, dragged me about 20-30ft, and took off.
The encounter was terrifying and left me with a serious arm injury that required immediate medical attention. Thankfully there was a Pediatric ER doctor nearby who stabilized my arm and stopped the bleeding, another hiker made continuous sound to keep the bears from returning, another hiker was able to contact EMS via satellite and get the helicopter dispatched to our location. I was airlifted by helicopter to the nearest hospital where the emergency room staff, orthopedic surgeon, and hospital team worked tirelessly to stabilize me and begin my recovery. I’ve had three surgeries now and will need at least one more.
Now, as I focus on healing, I am facing significant medical bills from the treatment and care I received. The costs are overwhelming, and I am reaching out for help to cover these expenses so I can continue my recovery without the added stress of financial hardship.
I am deeply grateful for everyone who has supported me—from hikers Eric and Michaela, who helped stop the bleeding and saved my life, to Dr. Vaughn, my orthopedic surgeon, to my friend Chelsea, who helped me remain calm and helped care for me, and to Emma, Caelyn, Sam, and the rest of the Logan Hospital staff in Kalispell. Your kindness and expertise saved my life, and I am thankful beyond words. If you are able to support my fundraiser, your generosity will help me move forward and heal. Thank you for being part of my journey.
All proceeds exceeding medical costs will be donated to the National Park Service.