
"Last Breath" is a recent film and rescue thriller about one of the most horrific diving accidents that occurred off the coast of Scotland.
On September 19, 2012, three divers descended 300 feet below the surface of the North Sea to replace a pipe on an oil rig. During their repairs, they experienced rough waters and equipment failure. The ship they were tethered to started to move away due to a violent storm. While trying to get back to the bell, Chris Lemmons' umbilical cables got caught on a metal structure and snapped, leaving him trapped with only five minutes of oxygen.
Because of the ship’s computer malfunction, it took more than 30 minutes for their systems to reset and for the crew to locate Lemmons, who by that time had gone 29 minutes without oxygen.
“It was the most infinite darkness, I couldn’t see my hand in front of my face. At the bottom of the North Sea, out of air and with no hope of rescue, I said goodbye to all my dreams.”
- Chris Lemmons
It is widely accepted that permanent brain damage begins after 4 minutes without oxygen, and death can occur 4 to 6 minutes after. Even so, the crew never gave up their search which was hazardous at best.
Once the crew got Lemmons, age 32, back in the bell they did CPR and actually got a pulse. They were shocked when minutes later, Lemmons miraculously woke up and asked whether his fellow diver was okay. He was later reported as having no physical or mental damage. There seems to be no scientific explanation for how he managed to survive with no brain damage after going so long with no oxygen.
Just three weeks after the near-death experience, Lemmons and his coworkers went back underwater to finish the repairs they had originally started.
Film and documentary director Alex Parkinson said, “It was important for him to get back on the horse. They went down together as a team. It closed the chapter for them psychologically so that they could move on.”
What can we learn from "Last Breath?”
Never give up. Even when the odds are against you and things look grim. Sometimes it is darkest before the dawn. You may be struggling with the fallout of ADHD, as you are trying to figure out the way forward. There are those who can help with the promise of a better tomorrow!
Keep the faith. Humans are not supposed to last without oxygen. Lemmons’ teammates kept searching for him even though his chances of survival were slim. There is hope!
“Don’t quit before the miracle.”
- Fannie Flagg
The importance of a team. Lemmons had a team that had his back. Good treatment involves a team. Who is on your team? Don’t go it alone!
Face the fear. Shortly after the incident, Lemmons and his coworkers went back to the scene and completed the job. They faced their fear and were able to move beyond it. They bravely reframed the harrowing experience. Facing our fears brings freedom!
Overcoming adversity breeds resilience. Each obstacle we overcome makes us stronger!
Miracles do happen. Life is filled with defining moments. A diagnosis can be the key that unlocks the door to a better future!
Who gives you oxygen? Chris Lemmons' teammates persevered to both save and revive him. They brought him back to life. Who breathes new life into you? Spend time with those who lift you up!
You CAN persevere against all odds!
Need a team that has your back? Schedule a free consultation with an ADHD coach!
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