05/12/08 Bend
"If I could help in saving someone's life, like they did mine, that’s the ultimate goal."
It's been more than a year since Brian Rouse lost his father roger after getting lost while snowmobiling. Sunday November 26th, 2006, a trip from Dutchman Flats, is one Brian will never forget. A heavy storm caused them to become disoriented and lost for two days. A rescue helicopter pulled Brian to safety. His father did not survive. 53 year roger rouse suffered extreme hypothermia. Brian has permanent damage from frostbite
"I have frostbite on my finger and had to have all my toes amputated from frostbite," Brian says.
Brian is going from victim to rescuer. He is now training to be a part of the Deschutes County Search and Rescue team that saved his life. He and his wife Tammy are going through the 30 day training process which includes classroom sessions and hands on drills three times a week. Brian is the only rescuee participating among the 80 volunteers.
"I am very proud of Brian for stepping forward and doing what he is doing I think that’s probably part of the healing process for him," says Sgt. Marvin Combs with Deschutes County Search & Rescue. Sgt Combs was apart of the rescue team that searched for brian and his father. He is now taking Brian and his wife through their training.
"It means a lot to see him standing here today," Combs says.
Brian says his mom is worried by the idea of him going out on searches in extreme conditions, but knows the training will prepare him for it. Brian is also holding the Roger Rouse Memorial Golf Tournament at Crosswater for the second year in honor of his father with the proceeds benefitting Deschutes County Sheriff's Search and Rescue. The event raised over $6,000 last year.
"I have a whole new take on life. It’s short. I don’t sweat the small stuff I used to," Brian says.
For more information on the golf tournament go to: www.celebratingroger.com