Skip to main content

Not Dead Until Warm and Dead

Anna Bagenholm was an accomplished doctor, who spent much of her free time enjoying the Norwegian outdoors, particularly skiing. On one fateful day, she experienced a life-threatening accident that would change her life forever. Despite the odds being stacked against her, Anna's incredible story of survival is a testament to the human spirit and the power of hope.



The Accident

Anna Bagenholm was skiing in northern Norway when she lost control and fell off a cliff. She landed on a frozen puddle, which gave way, and she fell through a 20-centimeter thick ice sheet. The impact of the fall caused her body to become trapped underneath the ice, with her head and body submerged in freezing water.

Anna was unable to move or call for help, and she quickly began to lose consciousness due to the cold. Her body temperature dropped rapidly, and her heart stopped beating for two hours. In most cases, patients like Anna are pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital, but her story is different.


Not Dead Until Warm and Dead

Anna was airlifted to the nearest hospital, where she was taken to the emergency room. The phrase "not dead until warm and dead" is common in Norway, and Anna was a perfect example of why this phrase exists. Even though her heart had stopped beating and her body temperature was dangerously low, doctors refused to give up on her.

Anna's body was immediately warmed, and doctors worked tirelessly to resuscitate her. Despite the odds being stacked against her, Anna slowly began to show signs of life. Her heart started beating again, and she was able to breathe on her own. However, her journey to recovery was far from over.

Anna spent several months in the hospital recovering from her injuries. Her body had suffered severe damage from the cold, and she had to undergo multiple surgeries to repair the damage. Her recovery was slow, but she never lost hope.

Eventually, Anna was able to leave the hospital and begin the long process of rehabilitation. She had to relearn how to walk and talk, and she had to undergo extensive physical therapy. Despite the challenges she faced, Anna remained positive and determined to make a full recovery.


The Power of Hope

Anna Bagenholm's incredible story of survival is a testament to the power of hope. Despite the odds being stacked against her, she never gave up. Her determination to recover, combined with the skill and dedication of her doctors, allowed her to overcome incredible obstacles and make a full recovery.

Anna's story serves as a reminder that even in our darkest moments, we should never give up hope. With determination, perseverance, and the support of those around us, we can overcome even the most difficult challenges. Anna's story is a shining example of the resilience of the human spirit, and it will continue to inspire others for years to come.