Join us for a gripping recap of the 1986 Mount Hood disaster on Flatline to Lifeline. Listen as Dr. Bill Long takes us through the bone-chilling events, describing the blizzard that ensnared a group of high school students and faculty, turning an annual expedition into a catastrophe. Dr. Long recounts his experience from the initial awareness at the hospital to the moment the urgency of the situation shattered the calm, drawing in the media and escalating public expectations.
Discover the unique physiological challenges presented by accidental hypothermia, like hypovolemic shock, and the critical need to maintain circulation in these dire circumstances. You'll hear about the innovative and heroic methods employed by Dr. Long and his team, including the groundbreaking use of cardiopulmonary bypass equipment under extreme conditions, and how these techniques turned what seemed like a hopeless situation into multiple saves.
As the narrative progresses, you'll grasp the full scope of the rescue efforts and the collaborative spirit that defined the Portland medical community's response. Through harrowing accounts of specific rescues and the strategic decisions made under immense pressure, you'll understand the profound impact of these actions on patient survival. Dr. Long's storytelling not only highlights the logistical and medical hurdles faced but also emphasizes the ethical considerations and the unwavering dedication required in trauma care. Tune in for a powerful exploration of life-saving strategies and medical advancements that continue to inspire and educate.
Read more about the Mount Hood climbing disaster here. You can learn about the book that one student's mother wrote entitled, The Mountain Never Cries, and check out another recount of the event in the book, Code 1244.
To learn more about these life saving strategies and techniques, look for Dr. Long’s upcoming book, Flatline to Lifeline.
Follow us on Twitter @DrLongPodcast
Producer: Esther McDonald
Director & Technical Support: Lindsey Kealey, Host of The PAWsitive Choices Podcast
© Flatline to Lifeline 2025
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