Safety is of utmost importance on an expedition of this length and intensity. An Arctic explorer needs to keep this in mind with every choice he or she makes.

In the world of professional exploration, this sort of thinking is known as "Expedition Mentality." One is always asking, "What if…" What if I leave my shovel laying in the snow tonight and it snows 2 feet overnight? What if I don’t rest when I should? What if I don’t tend to this blister that is starting on my heel? Prevention and forethought is critical to a safe expedition of any length.

With that said, however, accidents can happen, even to the most prepared. While all of the team members are in excellent health, it is crucial on this expedition, with the multiple variables of cold, dogs, heavy sleds, and challenging terrain, to prepare for the worst. Enter Skip Hofstrand, veteran Emergency Room Doctor from Duluth, MN.

Skip fits Elizabeth with a neck brace.

Skip spent the day working with the expedition team and support staff, reviewing medical scenarios and practicing first aid and critical care. Everyone in the room had the opportunity to learn how to stitch up a wound, build a neck brace, insert an IV, manage infection, and other invaluable skills.

Skip will work in conjunction with Base Camp Manager, John Huston and a seasoned paramedics team from Cloquet, MN to ensure the highest quality of medical support possible for the expedition team. This will include follow-through on major emergency medical evacuations if needed. Skip has been medical advisor to all of Will’s expeditions since 1986, including TransAntarctica, North to the Pole, the International Arctic Project, and most recently, Arctic Transect.