Vicki Hau, a 37-year-old woman, had a harrowing experience while climbing the headland of Trwyn Llech-y-Doll in the Llŷn Peninsula. A rock face collapse sent her plummeting 40 feet to the ground, leaving her with severe injuries. Vicki vividly recalls the terrifying moment, stating, “I remember flipping upside down, then boom! I must have blacked-out for a few seconds because the next thing I can remember was my friend, Neil, in front of me, my arms, the ropes, the boulders around me, covered in blood.” Despite the shock and injuries, Vicki showed remarkable resilience and accepted her reality, grateful to be alive.
Neil, her climbing companion, acted swiftly by covering her with his jacket and rushing up the cliffside to call for help. The RNLI inshore lifeboat from Abersoch and HM Coastguard rescue teams responded promptly to the distress call. The risky nature of a clifftop or helicopter rescue led Helm Andy Gunby to steer the lifeboat expertly towards Vicki, allowing the crew and a paramedic to reach her ashore safely. Despite her multiple fractures, including to her neck, spine, and leg, Vicki remained surprisingly calm, aided by her background as an emergency room doctor.
The crew members, including Phill Wood, were impressed by Vicki’s composure and medical knowledge amidst the chaos. Vicki’s injuries were severe, with a multi-fragmented left tibial fracture requiring surgical intervention. After careful assessment by the paramedic, Vicki was swiftly transported to Bangor Hospital for further treatment. Vicki’s resilience and the efficient response of the rescue teams were crucial in ensuring her survival and subsequent recovery.
Following her ordeal, Vicki visited the RNLI lifeboat station to express her gratitude to the crew members who played a pivotal role in saving her life. As St David’s Day approached, Vicki reflected on the significance of the day and praised the dedication of the Abersoch RNLI crew. She emphasised the impact of small acts of kindness and the selfless commitment of RNLI volunteers in saving lives at sea. Vicki’s heartfelt thankfulness resonates as a testament to the importance of community support and swift emergency responses in times of crisis.
The Abersoch RNLI crew members, who volunteered their time to assist in Vicki’s rescue, expressed pride in their contribution to her recovery. Vicki’s story serves as a reminder of the valor and dedication exhibited by rescue teams in safeguarding lives in perilous situations. As Vicki continues her journey towards healing, she remains thankful for the unwavering support and professionalism displayed by all involved in her rescue mission. The collaborative efforts of emergency responders and volunteers underline the profound impact of solidarity and swift action in times of adversity.