Wilderness First Aid, a Healed Ankle, and Leadership Lessons
Volunteering at JH Ranch was one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of my life. Serving as part of the wilderness medical team taught me just how critical preparation, adaptability, and teamwork are when you’re in a rural setting far from immediate help. It also showed me how deeply meaningful it can be to help someone push beyond their limits.
One experience at JH stands out in my memory as a defining moment. A student was set to participate in the Second Wind experience, a wilderness trek designed to inspire spiritual growth and reflection. This student, however, faced significant medical challenges that made the hike more demanding than usual. As part of the support team, my role was to ensure their safety while navigating the rugged terrain of Meeks Meadow. I’ll admit, I questioned if I was up to the task.I was recovering from an ankle injury myself, and the thought of hiking miles over uneven trails with a fully loaded med kit and carrying the student's pack felt like a daunting prospect. But I’ve learned that wilderness first aid isn’t just about having the right gear or training—it’s about showing up with a mindset to help, no matter the obstacles.
The hike was challenging. Meeks Meadow is as beautiful as it is remote, with towering trees and open fields that feel untouched by time. The terrain demanded focus, and the weight of the packs I was carrying seemed to grow with every step. But what struck me most was the guest’s determination. Despite their limitations, they pushed forward, driven by the goal of reaching the meadow. When we finally got there, the sense of accomplishment was undeniable.
Watching the student take in the meadow’s beauty was a humbling moment. It reminded me that being part of the medical team isn’t just about treating injuries—it’s about giving people the confidence to reach experiences they might’ve thought were out of reach. That hike showed me how important it is to be prepared and stay resilient in the middle of nowhere. Learning wilderness first aid gave me the confidence to deal with tough situations without relying on the comforts of city life. But honestly, the biggest lesson was that helping others isn’t just about having the right skills. It’s about pushing yourself out of your comfort zone to be there for someone else, even when you’re not 100% sure you can.
Looking back, my time at JH Ranch completely changed how I think about service and leadership. Volunteering in a rural, wilderness environment pushed me out of my comfort zone and challenged me to adapt, problem-solve, and truly rely on the people around me. I didn’t just walk away with practical skills like first aid and teamwork—I came away with a deeper understanding of how impactful it is to support others and work toward something bigger than yourself.
If you’ve ever thought about volunteering in a wilderness or rural setting, do it. It’s not just about helping others—it’s about discovering how capable you are when things get tough. The lessons you’ll learn and the connections you’ll make will stay with you long after you leave.
For more information about JH Ranch, visit JHRanch.com