Injured man survives 4 days in wilderness

When you work in a hospital, there are no shortage of inspirational stories. But every once in a while, something comes along that knocks your socks off (so please read on).

Karl Brandt is a 69-year-old spitfire who cherishes his independence. He owns a 40-acre hobby farm about three hours north of Toronto, and spends his days tending to his property, working on his cars and chopping the wood that heats his home all winter. After noticing a large dead tree about 400 feet from his house back in June, Karl prepped his chainsaw and ATV to chop it down. What he didn’t realize was how monumental the next few minutes of his life would be.

Despite his best efforts, the dead tree wouldn’t fall. In fact, it settled on another nearby tree, prompting Karl to cut that one down as well to help them fall down together. The plan worked, but then took an unexpected turn: the massive weight of both trees suddenly gave way, and crushed Karl’s body on impact.

This is the part of the story where you really have to look at the facts: Karl had a dislocated hip, broken back and partially paralyzed arm; he was alone with no cell phone, water or food; no one could hear his calls for help. Save for his German Sheppard Sheba, there was no other living creature for miles (unless you count the bears that sometimes ramble through his property). The situation was truly desperate. Despite his critical injuries, Karl managed to drag his body half way back to his house. But the pain eventually became too much, so he settled onto a small patch of dirt, covered his body with leaves to protect himself from the sweltering heat and insects. To keep track of time, he put his watch in front of him on the ground. Thoughts of his family crossed his mind about every ten seconds.

Incredibly, Karl was stranded on that small patch of dirt for four days before he was rescued. His miracle came in the form of four concerned daughters, one real estate agent and the amazing care of Sunnybrook. Click on my video to see the tale unfold.

His ongoing recovery has taken place at St. John’s Rehab, and in no small part thanks to the love and support of his four daughters, Zara, Katrina, Jeannette and Michelle. Karl is currently living with Michelle and her fiancé Dylon as he continues his recovery. For a man who never lost hope during the most hopeless time, there’s no stopping Karl now.