Shortly after I arrived in Switzerland, and began to hike in the Alps, some of the colleagues introduced me to Rega, a non-profit organization that runs a nationwide rescue service. I’ve seen their helicopters fly overhead our Zürich flat, heading for the nearby hospital; zipping over the peaks of Alps as I hiked through the high country; and lifting off from the ski slopes of Zermatt with an injured skier.
Anywhere, any time, you can call 1414 and they will show up, with skilled personnel and equipment for remote extraction and medical treatment. They do an astonishing 17,000 rescue missions every year, in this tiny country about the size of Vermont and New Hampshire. By donating a small sum to become a patron, I am now eligible for free rescue whenever, wherever I may need it. Hopefully I’ll never need it — instead, my donation goes to help support this service and to help others who may need it. Well worth the contribution! Watch their short video to learn more.
David Kotz 