In October 2024, Pamela Helmstadter was found severely hypothermic after several nights lost in woods near Alexander, Maine. Her dog Lucy was lying across her chest, and officials said Lucy likely helped keep her alive.

Alexander, Maine, United States

Story

Pamela and John Helmstadter went out for a walk with Lucy in October 2024. John fell, Pamela went for help, and she became lost in the woods as night and cold set in.

When rescuers found Pamela days later, she was severely hypothermic and Lucy was lying across her chest. Officials said the dog likely helped keep her alive until help arrived.

This story is archived because companionship itself became life-preserving in an emergency. It is also recorded with care because John Helmstadter died; the rescue had both survival and loss.

Sources

• The Guardian: Dog likely saved lost Maine woman from freezing