For Kate, the afternoon of September 17th went from a beautiful hike to Switzer Waterfall to a terrifying fall where she is lucky to be alive.

We had started the day hiking to the waterfall at Switzer Trail in Angeles Forest National Park. When we got to the creek at the top of the waterfall, Kate unfortunately lost her footing and terrifyingly slid down the steam, falling nearly 70 feet off the edge of the waterfall into a very shallow pool of water. Thankfully she was conscious, but she was seriously injured. I was able to find some good samaritans to help me call in emergency responders for Kate. After two hours of diligent work from the Montrose Search and Rescue team, Fire, Police, and Sheriffs departments, Kate was hoisted up into a helicopter and flown to the nearest trauma emergency hospital. She sustained large cuts to her forehead from striking against the rocks, and suffered a hip fracture which required surgery.

She is expected to make a full recovery from her injuries in about 4-6 weeks, but in the meantime this means many unexpected bills and expenses will arise for Kate and her husband Paul. As many know, it is expensive to live in LA. And try as he might, Paul can't do it alone while supporting his wife through her recovery. I am starting this page to raise money to be used for Kate's medical expenses, her and Paul's home and utility bills, and a new phone for Kate, since hers didn't make it through the fall.

Thank you for any and all contributions to her page; I will keep updating with more information on her condition and progress. For now, she is resting at home and slowly but surely getting stronger each day. Despite the circumstances, Kate still has a positive attitude. It will be a long time before she is able to get around unassisted, but she is determined and working hard to do so. Anyone who knows Kate loves her kind and gentle spirit, with a dose of adventure and spitfire mixed in. Let's come together to help her out... just like she would help us if the situation was reversed. Thank you again. 

-Emily P

Kate and Paul recovering at home Saturday, 21st.

Kate getting hoisted by the medic into the helicopter. Photo taken by Montrose Search and Rescue Team.

Kate at the Griffith Observatory.

Kate exploring the beach with her sister Emily.

Kate and I hiking September 11th (the week before her accident).

Their wedding with Kate's mom and dad.

Kate and her mom.


Kate and Paul exploring together.