Sports Bra to the Rescue!

Berlin, Germany

When Colorado native Jessica Bruinsma got ready for her hike through the Bavarian Alps last week, she likely packed a few safety items in case of emergency. Perhaps some bandages, maybe some food and water. She probably didn't intend to use her undergarments as emergency equipment. But when the 24 year-old athlete fell over 16 feet onto an isolated rocky ledge, she was left with little choice. With a dislocated shoulder and badly bruised leg, Bruinsma had no chance of climbing to safety. Just within reach, a line used in the timber harvesting process stretched stationary through the air, it's system stopped. Keeping her outer clothing for warmth, Bruinsma tied her sports bra to the line as a signal, in hopes that rescue workers might spot it and come to investigate. For 70 hours, she survived on the narrow ledge with only a little water from a supply box. Finally, the timber harvesting system was activated and the line carried her bra to a base, where workers who knew of the missing hiker called the police.

Once rescued, Bruinsma decided to abandon her plans to stay in Germany, choosing instead to return to her family in the states.

To read more, visit http://www.cnn.com/2008/WORLD/europe/06/23/sports.bra.ap/index.html

Special thanks to the Gander for tipping us off to this one.