Weāre very sorry to share some sad news with the Unalayee community today. About a week ago, Unalayee alumni, long-time camper and counselor Scott Cosgrove was very seriously hurt in a workplace accident. While working as a rigger on a movie set in an aircraft hanger in Southern California, Scott fell from a crane over 30 feet directly onto a concrete floor. He was very seriously injured with multiple compound fractures, including a major facial and skull fracture. The good news is that the current medical prognosis is that he is expected to live and recover. There is no evidence of brain or spinal damage and the doctors are reportedly āhopeful.ā As of this writing, he has completed all of the major needed surgeries without complication, although he is still in ICU and heavily sedated. Needless to say, this recovery will take a long time, so we wanted to reach out to anyone who knows Scott.
For those who donāt know Scott, he is a world-class mountaineer and rock climber, with a long and storied career in the mountains and desert. He has received two Presidential Civilian Bravery CommendationsĀ for his work on the Yosemite search and rescue squad. After many years as an international athlete at the very leading edge of his sport, Scott dedicated himself to his work in recent years as an award-winning stunt man and rigger for major Hollywood productions.
If youād like to learn more, here is an article about Scottās careerĀ and an article with more about the accident and Scottās climbing accomplishments.
Like most of us, Scott has mellowed a little in his middle-age. The last time I spoke with him, we talked about wanting to spend some easy, fun days in the mountains, enjoying long, moderate rock climbs or scrambling about in the hills. As he put it then, he was looking forward to ākeeping it between the white lines.ā We planned to hike part of the Trinities Alps High Route next summer, from Mirror to Kalmia and then Smith. I very much hope we still get to do that someday.
I am very sad for my old friend, but know he is strong and fit enough to fight this long fight. If any of you would like to send on your well wishes, you can send correspondence to:
PO Box 1983
Palm Springs, CA 92263
You can also post on his Facebook page.
A fund has also been started to help with what will be a very long and difficult road to recovery. Please give to the fund if you wish.
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