I’ve guided Dr. Vorlicky for nearly 15 years. We’ve shared a lot of great hunts together, but this one took an unexpected turn. While unloading gear after a long ride into the mountains, I felt a sharp pain shoot through my lower back, pain that only got worse as the night went on. I couldn’t sleep, and before long, I couldn’t move either. Miles from anywhere, Dr. Vorlicky went from hunter to physician in an instant.
With a satellite connection, he arranged for medication to be flown in by plane. I’ve never been a big fan of Starlink in the wilderness, but this time, it saved me. When things still weren’t improving, Dr. Vorlicky made a call I’ll never forget. He packed up camp, loaded me into his truck, and drove 24 hours straight back to Minnesota to get me care.
Along the way, he made a few phone calls. By the next day, I was in for an MRI and a same-day injection with Dr. Aaron Bloom at TCO. From start to finish, every person I met made me feel like I was in the right place. The care was seamless, fast, and professional.
I’d never been to Minnesota before, but I have friends from there and always heard about ‘Minnesota Nice.’ I can now confirm it’s a real thing. Everyone I met was kind, helpful, and genuine. Dr. Vorlicky still managed to get his elk while I was laid up, but we’re both looking forward to a do-over where I can stay on my feet.