Michael Laush and his best friend traveled to Vail last year for an epic trip to conquer the popular ski resort. But a fluke accident left him buried in the snow and suffocating. Thankfully a group of strangers stopped to help. Using CPR and other first aid the ending up saving his life.
Vail Mountain had 11 inches of fresh powder and 20 inches of new snow when Michael Laush and his best friend arrived on the mountain to ski the back bowls in honor of their 40th birthdays. Part way through the day, Michael lost his balance and fell. According to nearby skiers, the mountain swallowed him, leaving two ski boots sticking out of the snow. A group of nearby skiers and snowboarders worked to unbury Laush. The rescuers recall it took about seven minutes to dig and pull Laush from the snow. Laush was purple and not breathing when they pulled his body out. Karen Nern and Beth McCrann began CPR and rescue breaths. Slowly, the rescuers felt a heartbeat and Michael opened his eyes. He was taken to a nearby hospital, where doctors were shocked at the miracle that had just taken place. Nineteen hours later, Michael was discharged and given a clean bill of health.
For their heroic and lifesaving acts, Karen and Tom Nern, Beth McCrann, Karen Colter and Nick Anderson, received the American Red Cross Adult Lifesaving Award at the American Red Cross Heroes Soiree, Saturday, February 29, 2020.