Rescuers Break Through to Trapped Chilean Miners

Rescuers Break Through to Trapped Chilean Miners

Some weeks back they were warning this might not happen for three or four months. Now it looks as though, with luck, the 33 miners may be brought out within a couple of weeks, although there are still dangerous procedures ahead, including some explosives work. The miners have been trapped 2,300 below the surface for over two months, but have had supplies delivered to them through a small opening. The new opening is 26 inches wide and can accommodate an escape capsule with a 21-inch internal diameter. The opening is so small that several miners "have been put on a special diet" to be sure they will fit. First up the shaft will be several miners who are considered expert in the technique, followed by those in the most fragile health.

I suffer a bit from claustrophobia. I guess in their place I'd have gotten over it or gone barking mad. God bless 'em. At least they knew all this time their friends were coming for them, which must have kept them sane.