Sheila Hess is a dedicated SB County employee who works tirelessly in the County Elections Office. She is known for her kindness, generosity, and being a good friend to many. On Saturday, January 31, Sheila and her friends set out for an early morning hike to Tangerine Falls on Cold Springs Trail. About a mile into the hike, they decided to turn back due to difficult trail conditions. Within minutes, Sheila slipped, and the break in her ankle was immediate and evident.

Thanks to quick thinking and satellite texting, the group was able to reach 911. Within 20 minutes, a Santa Barbara County Sheriff helicopter was overhead, and soon after, the Montecito Fire Department and Santa Barbara County Search & Rescue arrived to help Sheila. Paramedics stabilized her ankle, provided pain relief, and prepared her for an airlift. Sheila received excellent care from the Cottage Hospital team during her surgery and recovery, and her friends are deeply grateful to all the agencies involved in her rescue.

No one wants to ask for help, especially Sheila, but her friends are reaching out for support. Sheila will be out of work for two months while she recovers and waits for her disability benefits to kick in. Any support you can offer will help Sheila cover her expenses and focus on healing. Thank you for considering a donation to help a kind, generous friend in her time of need.