Most of the time here at TIFI, we focus on fixing things. But today I wanted to share something I stumbled across that focuses on fixing a person.
In 1961, a twelve man Soviet crew was building a new base in the Antarctic. Mindful that being trapped in sub-zero temperatures for months on end required a medical professional to be on hand, one doctor had been assigned to the team. So what happens when the only man capable of performing surgery comes down with a severe case of appendicitis? He does what any reasonably minded person would do. Performs an appendectomy…on himself. There, he fixed it.
UPDATE: Thanks to everyone who commented. The response was overwhelmingly positive! If you posted a link to another historical kludge, you rock and I’ll be filing those away for future use. If you come across a kludge from history, please submit it or email it to me at thereifixedit@gmail.com. Until we either run out of suggestions or interest I’ll be posting one historical kludge every Thursday afternoon! – Ms. Fix-It
Via: BMJ.com
If you guys would like to see more historical kludges (or even if you don’t!) where circumstances warranted making do with what was available, please voice yourself in the comments.
Welcome Digg readers! Need more Historical Win? Of course you do.
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Favorite Comment: Fixer Gabriel says, “Wow, that is one tough Commie! I am impressed. Imagine being that guy’s son, once he has come home: “Daddy, I skinned my knee!”, “Well, son, once I cut out a part of my own digestive track in sub-zero Antarctic weather, so walk it off.”
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