Ernest Hemingway: A Life of Adventure, the Outdoors, and Exotic Travel

Ernest Hemingway, one of the most celebrated American writers of the 20th century, was not just a master of prose but also a larger-than-life adventurer who embraced the natural world and sought thrill in distant lands. His love for the outdoors and passion for travel were key influences on his life, shaping his worldview and deeply informing his writing. From the forests of Michigan to the plains of Africa and the seas of the Caribbean, Hemingway's life was as full of action as the stories he penned.

Early Love for Nature: Michigan's Wilderness

Hemingway’s affinity for the outdoors was cultivated at a young age. Growing up in Oak Park, Illinois, he spent many summers in the woods of northern Michigan. His family owned a cottage near Walloon Lake, where young Ernest was introduced to hunting, fishing, and camping. These early experiences left an indelible mark on him, fostering a lifelong love of nature that would influence much of his writing.

In his Nick Adams stories, Hemingway often draws from these formative years in Michigan. Stories like *Big Two-Hearted River* paint vivid landscapes of trout streams, pine forests, and rugged outdoor survival. Hemingway saw the wilderness as a place of refuge and self-discovery, where men could confront the raw elements of nature and, through this process, discover more about themselves.

Adventure Abroad: World War I and Post-War Travels

Hemingway's wanderlust extended far beyond the American wilderness. His travels began in earnest during World War I, when he served as an ambulance driver for the Red Cross in Italy. After being wounded, Hemingway's recovery led him to Paris, where he joined the expatriate community of writers and artists in the 1920s. While in Europe, Hemingway embraced a nomadic lifestyle, traveling to Spain for bullfights and to the Alps for skiing.

It was during this period that Hemingway began traveling to Spain, where he developed a fascination with bullfighting, a central theme in *The Sun Also Rises*. The vibrancy of Spanish culture, the intensity of the bullring, and the rugged landscapes of the Pyrenees captivated him, adding layers of richness to his fiction. In his writing, Hemingway masterfully captures the tension between life and death, drawing parallels between the primal nature of bullfighting and the human condition.

African Safaris: Hemingway’s Love for Big Game Hunting

Perhaps one of Hemingway’s most celebrated adventures was his deep engagement with Africa. In 1933, Hemingway embarked on his first safari in East Africa, a trip that fulfilled a lifelong dream. Hemingway relished the challenges of big game hunting, and his experiences on the African plains provided inspiration for some of his most famous works, including *Green Hills of Africa*, *The Snows of Kilimanjaro*, and *The Short Happy Life of Francis Macomber*.

Hemingway was drawn to Africa not just for the hunt but also for the raw beauty of its landscapes and the sense of danger that permeated every aspect of the safari experience. He saw Africa as one of the last frontiers of true adventure, a place where man was pitted against nature in its most untamed form. Hemingway's descriptions of Africa are vivid, capturing the majesty of the savannas and the thrill of tracking game in the wild.

His return to Africa in 1953, though marred by two plane crashes in two days, exemplified Hemingway's unyielding spirit of adventure. Even after suffering severe injuries, Hemingway refused to abandon his love for the continent and the excitement it provided.

Love for the Sea: Key West and Cuba

Hemingway's deep connection with the sea is perhaps best symbolized by his long residence in Key West, Florida, and later in Cuba. The sea played a crucial role in his life, offering both a sense of freedom and a new arena for adventure. An avid fisherman, Hemingway spent countless hours aboard his boat, the *Pilar*, navigating the waters of the Gulf Stream and the Caribbean Sea.

Fishing was more than just a pastime for Hemingway; it was a metaphor for the struggles of life, a theme explored most fully in *The Old Man and the Sea*. The novella, one of his most celebrated works, tells the story of an aging fisherman, Santiago, and his epic battle with a giant marlin. The sea, in all its vastness and unpredictability, became a setting where man’s endurance and spirit could be tested against nature’s overwhelming power.

Hemingway’s time in Cuba further cemented his love for the island lifestyle. In his home in Finca Vigía, just outside of Havana, he found the ideal place to write, fish, and embrace a simpler, more rugged existence. Cuba, with its rich culture and proximity to the sea, provided the backdrop for many of his later works and adventures.

Conclusion: A Life Lived in Pursuit of Experience

Ernest Hemingway’s life was defined by his love of the outdoors, his desire for adventure, and his unquenchable thirst for new experiences. Whether he was fishing the azure waters of the Caribbean, stalking lions on the African plains, or hiking the woods of northern Michigan, Hemingway sought to live life to its fullest. His travels to exotic and remote locations were not mere escapism but an integral part of his philosophy: that life should be lived with courage, authenticity, and a deep connection to the natural world.

This adventurous spirit did not just define his personal life—it infused his writing with a visceral energy that resonated with readers and secured his place as one of the most iconic writers of his generation. Hemingway’s tales of man’s struggle against nature, of courage in the face of danger, and of the beauty found in the wilds of the world continue to captivate readers, making his legacy as much about his adventures as it is about his literary genius.

The Medical Challenges of Building the Panama Canal

The construction of the Panama Canal, one of the greatest engineering marvels of the 20th century, was not just a monumental technical feat but also a critical medical battle. The region's tropical climate, dense jungle, and rampant disease made the building of the canal nearly impossible until significant advances in public health and tropical medicine were achieved. This article delves into the medical challenges faced during the construction and how they were overcome to complete this iconic waterway.

The Devastating Toll of Disease

When the French, led by Ferdinand de Lesseps, began work on the canal in 1881, they were ill-prepared for the region’s harsh environment. The Isthmus of Panama was a hotbed of tropical diseases, particularly malaria and yellow fever, which were poorly understood at the time. The French effort ended in failure after nearly a decade, due in large part to the high death toll from disease. Over 22,000 workers died during the French phase, and yellow fever was a chief culprit.

Yellow Fever and Malaria: The Invisible Foes

Yellow fever, a viral hemorrhagic disease transmitted by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, was especially feared. It caused high fevers, jaundice (hence the name "yellow"), and internal bleeding. Many workers who contracted it succumbed quickly, and it spread rapidly among the workforce.

Malaria, caused by the Plasmodium parasite and transmitted by the Anopheles mosquito, was another major threat. The French, like most people at the time, were unaware of how the disease spread. They thought miasma, or bad air, was responsible, which led to futile efforts like burning incense to purify the air.

Without knowledge of the true vectors of these diseases, the French were unable to mount an effective defense. Their workforce was decimated, contributing to the project's financial collapse.

The U.S. Takeover: A New Medical Approach

In 1904, when the United States took over the construction of the canal, they understood that addressing the medical challenges was as crucial as the engineering ones. Under the leadership of President Theodore Roosevelt, a team was assembled to not only build the canal but also wage a war against the diseases that had defeated the French.

Central to this medical effort was Dr. William C. Gorgas, a U.S. Army physician and expert in tropical medicine. Gorgas had previously worked in Havana, Cuba, where he applied the mosquito theory of disease transmission, which had recently been proven by Dr. Walter Reed and others. Gorgas’s work in Cuba provided valuable lessons that would be crucial to the success in Panama.

Gorgas's Sanitation Campaign

When Gorgas arrived in Panama, he immediately launched an aggressive campaign to control the mosquito populations responsible for spreading yellow fever and malaria. His approach had three main components:

1. Mosquito Eradication: Gorgas implemented large-scale efforts to eliminate mosquito breeding grounds. This involved draining stagnant water, clearing brush, fumigating buildings, and spreading oil on bodies of water to suffocate mosquito larvae.

2. Improved Sanitation: Workers built proper drainage systems, covered cisterns, and improved housing conditions to prevent mosquitoes from breeding near human habitation. Screening windows and doors with fine mesh was another essential part of the program.

3. Quarantine and Isolation: Infected individuals were isolated to prevent the spread of disease. Hospitals were upgraded with mosquito netting to ensure patients could not be bitten, thus halting the transmission cycle.

The results of these measures were dramatic. By 1905, yellow fever was virtually eradicated from the canal zone. Malaria, while not completely eliminated, was brought under control, with the number of cases and deaths reduced significantly. This allowed the workforce to remain healthy and productive, ensuring steady progress on the canal's construction.

Medical Infrastructure

In addition to mosquito control, the U.S. implemented broad public health measures to safeguard workers. A well-organized system of hospitals, clinics, and dispensaries was established to treat sick workers and prevent the spread of disease. One of the largest and most advanced hospitals of the time, Ancon Hospital, was built in the canal zone and became the hub of medical care for the workers.

A large-scale vaccination program was also instituted to protect against other diseases like smallpox. Workers were given quinine as a prophylactic measure to reduce malaria symptoms, a treatment derived from the bark of the cinchona tree.

Nutrition and Living Conditions

Beyond disease, the tropical environment posed other health challenges. Workers often suffered from heat exhaustion, malnutrition, and dehydration. Efforts were made to improve workers' diets, ensure access to clean water, and provide shaded areas to protect against the sun’s heat.

Living conditions were also improved. Workers were housed in barracks that were elevated off the ground, well-ventilated, and screened to keep out mosquitoes. These upgrades helped reduce the risk of disease and improved the overall well-being of the workforce.

Legacy of Medical Advancements

The medical battle fought during the construction of the Panama Canal had a lasting impact on public health in tropical regions. The success of Gorgas’s efforts confirmed the mosquito theory of disease transmission and highlighted the importance of environmental sanitation and vector control. These lessons influenced public health policies worldwide, particularly in other tropical regions where mosquito-borne diseases were rampant.

Moreover, the success of these efforts gave rise to the field of tropical medicine as a recognized specialty. Many of the principles applied in Panama became standard practice in later efforts to control malaria and yellow fever, including during the construction of other large-scale projects in tropical environments.

Conclusion

The Panama Canal stands not only as a triumph of engineering but also as a landmark in the history of medicine. The ability to control yellow fever and malaria was essential to the canal's successful completion, and the medical efforts in Panama laid the foundation for modern approaches to managing infectious diseases in tropical regions. The work of Dr. Gorgas and his team saved countless lives and allowed one of the world’s most important trade routes to come to fruition.

2023 Expedition Medicine National Conference Agenda Posted!

The agenda for the 2023 Expedition Medicine National Conference is now posted!

We are pleased to include a number of interesting and diverse topics covering wilderness medicine, tropical medicine, travel medicine, snake envenomations, medical evacuations, and more.

Please refer to the agenda below for the full list of topics and speakers for our upcoming conference!

Friday, April 21st, 2023

8:00-9:00 am  The Expedition Physician, Donner

9:00-10:00 am  Malaria, Townes

10:00-10:15am  Break

10:15-11:15 am  Backcountry Medical Kits, Donner

11:15-12:15 pm  Travel Vaccines, Freedman

12:15-1:30pm  Lunch

1:30-2:30 pm  North American Snake Envenomations, Bush

2:30-3:30 pm  Viral Diseases in Travelers, Freedman

3:30-4:30 pm  Geospatial Technology in Humanitarian & Disaster Response, Greenough

4:30-5:30 pm  Disaster on Everest, Kamler

Saturday, April 22nd, 2023

8:00-9:00 am Backcountry Water Disinfection & Purification, Donner

9:00-10:00 am  Schistosomiasis, Freedman

10:00-10:15am  Break

10:15-11:15 am  High-Altitude Medicine, Donner

11:15-12:15 pm  International Snake Envenomations, Bush

12:15-1:30pm  Lunch

1:30-2:30 pm  Cruise Ship Medical Evacuation, Callahan

2:30-3:30 pm  Fever in the Returned Traveler, Freedman

3:30-4:30 pm Spider Bites, Bush

4:30-5:30 pm Wilderness EMS, Hawkins

Damar Hamlin & Commotio Cordis

Heart-breaking video last night of Buffalo Bills player Damar Hamlin collapsing on the football field, receiving cpr, then being taken to the hospital by ambulance.

No one knows for certain what caused the collapse, but many medical professionals are suspecting a condition called commotio cordis.

The American Heart Association introduced commotio cordis in a recent journal article as,

“Commotio cordis is a phenomenon in which a sudden blunt impact to the chest causes sudden death in the absence of cardiac damage. This condition was first described in the middle of the 18th century in the context of chest trauma among workers. Through most of the 20th century, it was only sporadically reported. In the last 2 or 3 decades, commotio cordis events have primarily occurred in sports, and thus, this phenomenon has become more well known to the sports communities and physicians. Commotio cordis is to be differentiated from cardiac contusion (contusio cordis), a situation in which blunt chest trauma causes structural cardiac damage, such as observed in motor vehicular accidents.”

Prayers for Damar Hamlin and his family. For more information on commotio cordis , please see the following link: https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/full/10.1161/circep.111.962712#d1e141

Classic Expedition Gear: The History of the Rolex Submariner

The Rolex Submariner is a dive watch that was introduced by Rolex in 1953. It is considered one of the most iconic and recognizable watches in the world, and has been worn by a wide range of people, from deep sea divers to movie stars.

The Submariner was developed in response to the needs of professional divers, who required a reliable and accurate timepiece that could withstand the rigors of underwater use. The watch was designed to be water-resistant to a depth of 100 meters (330 feet), and featured a unidirectional bezel that could be used to track elapsed time while diving.

One of the key features of the Submariner is its Oyster case, which is made of stainless steel and features a screw-down crown that helps to ensure a high level of water resistance. The watch also has a self-winding movement, which means that it is powered by the movement of the wearer's wrist.

Over the years, the Submariner has undergone a number of updates and improvements. In the 1960s, Rolex introduced the Submariner Date, which added a date window to the watch's dial. In the 1980s, the company released the Submariner with a sapphire crystal, which is more scratch-resistant than traditional mineral crystal.

Today, the Submariner is considered one of the most prestigious and sought-after watches in the world. It is available in a range of sizes and materials, including gold and platinum, and is often worn as a symbol of success and sophistication. Despite its high price point, the Submariner continues to be a popular choice among collectors and watch enthusiasts alike.

The Explorers Club

The Explorers Club is an international organization that was founded in New York City in 1904. The club was established to promote the scientific study of exploration and to encourage the sharing of knowledge and resources among explorers.

The club's founders were a group of scientists, adventurers, and explorers who were interested in advancing the field of exploration and increasing public understanding of the natural world. Among the club's early members were famous explorers such as Robert Peary, who was the first person to reach the North Pole, and Richard Byrd, who was the first person to fly over the South Pole.

Over the years, the Explorers Club has grown to include a diverse and international membership of scientists, adventurers, and exploration enthusiasts. The club sponsors expeditions and research projects, organizes lectures and events, and provides funding and resources for exploration projects.

In addition to its work in exploration, the Explorers Club is also committed to conservation and the protection of the natural world. The club has a long history of supporting efforts to preserve the environment and promote sustainable development.

Today, the Explorers Club is an important and influential organization in the field of exploration and is dedicated to advancing the scientific study of the natural world and promoting a greater understanding of the earth's diverse and fascinating environments.

ExpedMed Spotlight: Jim Corbett

Jim Corbett was a British hunter and conservationist who is best known for his work in India, where he played a crucial role in the conservation of the Bengal tiger and other wildlife species.

Corbett was born in India in 1875, and grew up in the Kumaon region of the Himalayan Mountains. From an early age, he developed a love for the outdoors and a deep appreciation for the natural world. He began hunting as a means of providing for his family, but quickly became concerned about the impact that hunting was having on the local wildlife populations.

In the early 20th century, Corbett became involved in efforts to protect the Bengal tiger, which was facing significant threats due to poaching and habitat loss. He worked closely with the Indian government and local communities to establish the first national park in India, the Hailey National Park, which was later renamed the Jim Corbett National Park in his honor.

In addition to his work in conservation, Corbett was also a skilled writer and author. He wrote several books about his experiences in the Indian wilderness, including "The Man-Eaters of Kumaon" and "Jungle Lore," which have become classic works of nature writing.

Throughout his life, Corbett dedicated himself to the conservation of India's wildlife and the protection of the country's natural resources. His legacy lives on in the many protected areas that he helped establish and in the enduring appreciation for the natural world that he helped to cultivate.

Legend of the Yeti

The legend of the yeti, also known as the "abominable snowman," is a mythical creature that is said to inhabit the Himalayan mountain range in Asia. The legend of the yeti has a long and storied history, dating back to ancient times.

The first recorded mention of the yeti is found in Tibetan and Nepalese folklore, where the creature is known as the "mirka." The mirka is described as a large, ape-like creature with long, shaggy fur and a strong, musky odor. It is said to inhabit the high, snowy mountains and to be highly elusive, rarely seen by humans.

The legend of the yeti gained widespread attention in the Western world in the 1920s, when British mountaineer N.A. Tombazi claimed to have seen a creature that matched the description of the mirka while on an expedition in the Himalayas. Tombazi's account sparked a wave of interest in the yeti, and several expeditions were organized in the following decades to search for the creature.

Despite numerous attempts to find evidence of the yeti's existence, no conclusive proof has ever been found. Many scientists believe that the legend of the yeti is likely based on misidentifications of known animals, such as bears or primates. Others argue that the yeti could be a species of unknown ape-like creature that has yet to be discovered.

What is/are Chilblains?

Chilblains, also known as pernio or acrocyanosis, are small, itchy, and painful lesions that can occur on the skin when it is exposed to cold temperatures, especially after it has been warmed. They are most commonly found on the toes, fingers, heels, and ears, and can cause redness, swelling, and blistering.

Chilblains occur when the small blood vessels in the skin constrict in response to cold temperatures. When the skin is warmed, the blood vessels expand, leading to an increased blood flow to the affected area. This can cause inflammation and damage to the small blood vessels and surrounding tissue, resulting in chilblains.

Chilblains are more common in people who have poor circulation, including those with underlying medical conditions such as diabetes, lupus, and scleroderma. They are also more common in people who have poor nutrition or are underweight.

Treatment for chilblains involves keeping the affected area warm and dry, and avoiding further exposure to cold temperatures. Topical creams and ointments, such as corticosteroids, can be used to reduce inflammation and itching. In severe cases, oral medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), may be necessary.

Overall, chilblains are a common and often painful condition that can occur when the skin is exposed to cold temperatures. It is important for individuals to take steps to protect themselves from cold exposure and to seek treatment if chilblains develop.

Introduction to Frostbite

The following is not medical advice. Please consult your personal physician for medical concerns.

Frostbite is a medical condition that occurs when the skin and underlying tissues freeze due to exposure to cold temperatures. It most commonly affects the extremities, such as the fingers, toes, nose, and ears, but it can also occur on other areas of the body, such as the face, cheeks, and chin.

The risk of frostbite increases in extremely cold temperatures, but it can also occur in temperatures above freezing if the air is wet and windy. Factors that increase the risk of frostbite include poor circulation, poor nutrition, and certain medical conditions, such as diabetes and peripheral arterial disease. Alcohol and tobacco use can also increase the risk of frostbite.

The symptoms of frostbite vary depending on the severity of the condition, but may include numbness, a tingling sensation, and a feeling of warmth in the affected area. As the condition progresses, the skin may turn red or purple and may feel hard or waxy. Blisters may also develop.

Treatment for frostbite involves rewarming the affected area slowly and gradually, using water that is between 104°F and 108°F (40°C and 42°C). It is important to avoid overheating the affected area, as this can cause tissue damage. Pain medication may be necessary to manage the discomfort associated with rewarming. After rewarming, the affected area should be kept elevated to help reduce swelling.

Introduction to Hypothermia

Hypothermia is a medical condition that occurs when the body's core temperature drops significantly below normal. Normal body temperature is around 98.6°F (37°C), but hypothermia is defined as a body temperature of less than 95°F (35°C).

Hypothermia can occur in any environment, but it is most commonly seen in cold weather. It can also occur in individuals who are submerged in cold water or who are exposed to cold air for extended periods of time. Some medications, such as sedatives and certain types of antidepressants, can also increase the risk of hypothermia.

The symptoms of hypothermia vary depending on the severity of the condition, but may include shivering, numbness, slurred speech, lethargy, and confusion. If left untreated, hypothermia can lead to serious complications, such as frostbite, hypoglycemia, and cardiac arrhythmias. In severe cases, hypothermia can be fatal.

Treatment for hypothermia involves warming the body slowly and gradually. This may involve moving the individual to a warm environment, removing wet clothing, and providing warm, non-alcoholic beverages. In severe cases, medical intervention may be necessary, such as the use of warm intravenous fluids or mechanical ventilation.

Hypothermia & Alcohol

Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant that can have a number of negative effects on the body, including impairing judgment, coordination, and balance. It can also increase the risk of hypothermia, a condition in which the body's core temperature drops significantly below normal.

When a person consumes alcohol, their blood vessels dilate, causing a feeling of warmth. However, this is an illusion, as alcohol actually decreases the body's ability to regulate its temperature. As a result, an individual who is consuming alcohol may be more likely to remain in a cold environment for longer periods of time and may be less likely to notice the early signs of hypothermia, such as shivering and numbness.

In addition to increasing the risk of hypothermia, alcohol can also make it more difficult for the body to recover from hypothermia. Alcohol can impair the body's natural thermoregulatory mechanisms, making it harder for the body to warm itself up. This can lead to a worsening of the condition and potentially serious complications.

Overall, alcohol can significantly increase the risk of hypothermia and make it more difficult for the body to recover from the condition. It is important for individuals who are in cold environments to be aware of this risk and to limit their alcohol intake in order to reduce the likelihood of developing hypothermia.

Paradoxical Undressing in Hypothermia

Paradoxical undressing is a phenomenon that can occur in people who are experiencing severe hypothermia, a condition in which the body's core temperature drops significantly below normal. Paradoxical undressing occurs when an individual begins to remove their clothing despite the fact that they are in an environment that is much colder than their body temperature.

The exact cause of paradoxical undressing in hypothermia is not fully understood, but it is thought to be due to a combination of physiological and psychological factors. On a physiological level, hypothermia can cause confusion, disorientation, and impaired judgment, leading an individual to make irrational decisions, such as taking off their clothes. Additionally, hypothermia can cause a release of catecholamines, which can cause vasoconstriction and a feeling of warmth, leading an individual to believe they are too hot and in need of removing their clothing.

Paradoxical undressing can be a serious issue in hypothermia, as removing clothing can further decrease the body's core temperature and worsen the condition. It is important for individuals who are with someone experiencing hypothermia to be aware of this phenomenon and to intervene if necessary. This may involve ensuring that the individual is adequately clothed and protected from the cold environment.

Introduction to High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE)

High altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE) is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that can occur at high altitudes, usually above 2,500 meters (8,202 feet). It is characterized by fluid accumulation in the lungs, leading to difficulty breathing and a decreased ability to oxygenate the blood.

HAPE is thought to be caused by the reduced air pressure and low oxygen levels at high altitudes, which can cause the blood vessels in the lungs to constrict and impair blood flow. This leads to an increase in pressure in the pulmonary arteries, causing fluid to leak out of the blood vessels and into the air spaces of the lungs.

Symptoms of HAPE include shortness of breath, coughing up blood or frothy sputum, rapid breathing, chest pain, and fatigue. The condition can progress rapidly, and if left untreated, it can lead to respiratory failure and death.

HAPE can be prevented by ascending to high altitudes slowly and allowing the body time to acclimatize. It is also important to stay well-hydrated and avoid overexertion. If HAPE is suspected, it is crucial to descend to a lower altitude immediately and seek medical attention.

Treatment for HAPE may include supplemental oxygen, medications to improve blood flow in the lungs and reduce fluid accumulation, and descent to a lower altitude. In severe cases, mechanical ventilation may be necessary.

Overall, HAPE is a serious condition that can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. It is important for individuals who are planning to travel to high altitudes to be aware of the risks and to take precautions to prevent the development of this condition.

ExpedMed Spotlight: President Theodore Roosevelt

Theodore Roosevelt, the 26th President of the United States, was a passionate advocate for conservation and the preservation of natural resources. During his presidency from 1901 to 1909, Roosevelt implemented a number of policies and initiatives to protect the environment and ensure the sustainable use of natural resources.

One of Roosevelt's most notable conservation efforts was the creation of the U.S. Forest Service, which was responsible for the management and protection of federal forest lands. Roosevelt also established 150 national forests, 51 federal bird reservations, 4 national game preserves, and 5 national parks, including the iconic Yellowstone National Park.

In addition to protecting land, Roosevelt also worked to preserve the nation's water resources. He signed the Reclamation Act, which provided funding for the construction of dams and irrigation systems in the western United States. This helped to bring water to dry regions, allowing for the development of agriculture and industry in these areas.

Roosevelt also recognized the importance of preserving wildlife and worked to protect various species through the creation of national parks and game reserves. He signed the Antiquities Act, which allowed the President to designate national monuments and protect areas of cultural and historical significance. This act was used to protect sites such as the Grand Canyon and the Petrified Forest.

Roosevelt's efforts to conserve natural resources and protect the environment had a lasting impact on the United States. His actions set a precedent for future presidents and laid the foundation for the modern conservation movement. Today, his legacy lives on in the many protected lands and natural resources that are enjoyed by people all over the country.

ExpedMed Spotlight: U.S. General William Crawford Gorgas

U.S. General William Crawford Gorgas was a prominent military officer and physician who made significant contributions to public health and medicine in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Gorgas was born in Alabama in 1854 and graduated from the University of the South with a degree in engineering. He later attended the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, where he received his medical degree in 1880.

After completing his medical training, Gorgas joined the U.S. Army Medical Corps and was assigned to various posts around the world. He served in a number of capacities, including as the chief sanitary officer for the Department of the Gulf and as the chief surgeon for the Department of Texas.

Gorgas is best known for his work in controlling and preventing the spread of infectious diseases, particularly yellow fever and malaria. He led a number of successful campaigns to eradicate these diseases in various parts of the world, including Cuba, the Panama Canal Zone, and the Philippines.

Gorgas's work had a profound impact on public health and medicine, and he is credited with saving countless lives through his efforts to control the spread of infectious diseases. He was recognized for his contributions to the field with numerous awards and honors, including the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1929.

Malaria in History

Malaria is a disease caused by parasites that are transmitted to humans through the bites of infected mosquitoes. It is a significant public health problem that has affected people for centuries and has had a significant impact on history.

One of the earliest recorded instances of malaria is in the writings of ancient Greek and Roman physicians, who described a disease that was characterized by fever, chills, and sweating. The disease was likely present in many parts of the world at this time, but it was especially prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions.

Throughout history, malaria has had a major impact on human populations and has been a major contributor to morbidity and mortality in many parts of the world. In ancient times, it was one of the leading causes of death in many parts of the world, and it continues to be a major public health problem today, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa.

Malaria has also had a significant impact on human history and has played a role in shaping the course of events in many different ways. For example, it is believed that the disease may have contributed to the decline of the Roman Empire, as many soldiers and civilians were likely weakened by the disease, making them more susceptible to other illnesses and more vulnerable in battle.

In more recent history, malaria has also had a significant impact on the development of many countries. In some cases, it has slowed economic development and hindered the growth of trade and industry. In other cases, it has led to the development of new technologies and treatments, as people have sought ways to combat the disease and protect themselves from infection.

Overall, malaria has had a significant impact on human history and continues to be a major public health problem today. It is a complex disease that requires ongoing research and intervention to address, and it will likely continue to have a significant impact on the course of human history in the future.

ExpedMed Spotlight: Roy Chapman Andrews

Roy Chapman Andrews was a prominent American explorer and naturalist in the early 20th century. Born in Beloit, Wisconsin in 1884, Andrews developed a love for natural history at an early age, spending much of his childhood exploring the woods and fields around his hometown.

After completing his undergraduate degree at Beloit College, Andrews went on to earn a master's degree in vertebrate paleontology from Columbia University. He then joined the American Museum of Natural History in New York City, where he worked as a field collector and eventually became head of the Department of Vertebrate Paleontology.

Andrews is best known for his expeditions to the Gobi Desert in Mongolia in the 1920s, where he led a team of scientists on several expeditions to uncover the fossil remains of ancient animals and plants. During these expeditions, Andrews and his team made a number of important discoveries, including the first known specimen of the extinct species Protoceratops andrewsi, a small, horned dinosaur.

In addition to his work in paleontology, Andrews was also an avid naturalist and conservationist. He wrote several books about his expeditions and his work in natural history, and he was a vocal advocate for the protection of endangered species and the preservation of natural habitats.

Despite his many accomplishments, Andrews remains a controversial figure in the history of science. Some have criticized his methods and his tendency to sensationalize his discoveries, while others have praised his contributions to the field of paleontology and his efforts to promote the study of natural history.

Overall, Roy Chapman Andrews was a pioneering explorer and naturalist who made significant contributions to the fields of paleontology and natural history. His expeditions to the Gobi Desert and his efforts to promote conservation and understanding of the natural world continue to be remembered and celebrated today.

ExpedMed Spotlight: Sir Edmund Hillary

Edmund Hillary was a New Zealand mountaineer and explorer who, along with Tenzing Norgay, a Sherpa of Nepal, became the first climbers confirmed to have reached the summit of Mount Everest. Hillary and Norgay achieved this feat on May 29, 1953, as part of the ninth British expedition to Everest.

Prior to their successful ascent of Everest, Hillary had already gained a reputation as a skilled mountaineer. He had participated in several expeditions to the Himalayas, including an unsuccessful attempt to summit Everest in 1952. However, it was his determination and perseverance that ultimately led to his success on the mountain.

On the day of their summit, Hillary and Norgay set out from their camp at 27,900 feet (8,500 meters) in the early morning hours. They encountered several challenges along the way, including steep ice walls and deep snow. However, they persevered and eventually reached the summit at 11:30 am local time.

Upon reaching the summit, Hillary and Norgay took photos and planted flags to mark their achievement. They also left offerings of food and gifts for the gods, according to the Sherpa tradition. After spending about 15 minutes on the summit, the pair began their descent, arriving back at their camp at 6:30 pm.

Hillary's successful ascent of Everest made him a national hero in New Zealand and a celebrity around the world. He received numerous awards and honors for his achievement, including the Queen's Coronation Medal and the Order of the Garter.

In addition to his mountaineering achievements, Hillary also dedicated much of his life to humanitarian causes. He established the Himalayan Trust to provide aid to the Sherpa people of Nepal, and he also worked on various conservation projects in the region.

In conclusion, Edmund Hillary's successful ascent of Mount Everest was a historic achievement that cemented his reputation as one of the greatest mountaineers of all time. His determination and perseverance on the mountain, as well as his dedication to humanitarian causes, continue to inspire people around the world.

Intro to Diamox Use at High Altitude

The following should not be interpreted as medical advice. Please discuss any medical treatments with your personal physician.

Diamox, also known as acetazolamide, is a medication that is used to prevent and treat high altitude sickness. High altitude sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness (AMS), is a condition that can occur when people ascend to high altitudes too quickly. Symptoms of AMS include headache, nausea, shortness of breath, and fatigue.

At high altitudes, the air is thin and contains less oxygen. This can be problematic for people who are not acclimated to high altitudes because their bodies are not able to get enough oxygen from the air. As a result, they may experience symptoms of AMS.

Diamox is a medication that can help prevent and treat AMS by increasing the amount of oxygen that is available to the body. It does this by causing the kidneys to excrete more bicarbonate, which in turn causes the blood to become more acidic. This acidity stimulates the respiratory center in the brain, leading to an increase in breathing rate and an increase in the amount of oxygen that is taken in by the body.

In addition to its use in preventing and treating AMS, diamox— in conjunction with other therapies— has also been found to be effective in preventing and treating other altitude-related conditions such as high altitude cerebral edema (HACE) and high altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE). HACE and HAPE are more severe forms of AMS and can be life-threatening if left untreated.

Diamox is typically taken in tablet form and is typically taken once or twice a day, depending on the individual and the severity of their symptoms. It is important to note that diamox is not a substitute for acclimatization, and people who are planning to travel to high altitudes should still take the time to allow their bodies to adjust to the thin air.

In conclusion, diamox is a useful medication for preventing and treating high altitude sickness. It works by increasing the amount of oxygen available to the body, which can help alleviate symptoms of AMS and other altitude-related conditions. However, it is not a substitute for acclimatization and should be used in conjunction with proper ascent rates and other preventative measures.