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"The most important thing is to have motivation and focus on what you want to achieve. With hard work, you can overcome all the necessary steps."
In the heart of Spain's picturesque Basque Country, a seasoned rescuer, Manuel de Arriba, affectionately known as "Manua," has dedicated a significant portion of his life to saving lives in some of the most challenging environments. He pursued his studies in Nursing, a foundation that led him to work in various emergency services, ranging from beach lifeguarding to operating in advanced life support ambulances. Currently, Manua serves in the Basque Country Rescue Service, showcasing his unwavering dedication and diverse expertise in emergency response. His narrative is a testament to resilience and a commitment that transcends through different facets of emergency care.
Seeds of Dedication
As a teenager, Manua consciously made the decision to dedicate his life to rescue operations. His fascination with rescue operations began at the tender age of twelve when he witnessed a gripping mountain rescue in the Pirineos. Little did he know that this experience would shape his future, sparking a curiosity for the world of rescue and helicopters.
“Since my teenage years, I was resolute about the profession I wanted to pursue in the future,” recalls Manua. At 17, he volunteered with the Red Cross Mountain Rescue, where he crossed paths with professional rescue teams. This pivotal experience served as the guiding compass shaping his professional trajectory.
Family Roots and Lifelong Values
Manua attributes his strong work ethic and values to his parents, who instilled in him the importance of effort, honesty, and respect. Unfortunately, the tragic loss of a friend in a mountain accident and encounters with other severe accidents reinforced Manua's belief in the significance of first aid knowledge. This led him to actively promote and share valuable information about first aid, emphasizing its importance, especially in remote locations.
Over the course of two decades, Manua has been involved in numerous rescues, some successful and others heartbreaking. He vividly recalls the challenges of complex rescues, particularly in the demanding realm of cave rescues. These experiences have molded him into the resilient and skilled rescuer he is today.
A Testament to Motivation and Expertise
Manua's journey into the realm of rescue work has been paved with unwavering motivation and a razor-sharp focus on his goals. For aspiring rescuers, he offers invaluable advice, stressing the importance of cultivating a deep-seated motivation—an inner fire that propels individuals through the demanding steps required to thrive in the world of rescue operations.
In underlining the significance of hard work, Manua firmly positions it as the cornerstone of success. In the dynamic field of rescue, Manua places particular emphasis on the value of medical knowledge. Acquiring skills in emergency medical care not only enhances one's effectiveness in critical situations but also elevates the level of care provided to those in need. It's this combination of motivation, hard work, and medical expertise that has defined Manua's journey in the world of rescue.
Life Beyond the Rescue Gear
Beyond the clinking of rescue gear and the whir of helicopter blades, Manua finds solace in the serene embrace of mountain sports. For him, these activities offer a unique and rejuvenating experience, a break from the high-stakes world of rescue operations.
In addition to mountain sports, Manua has discovered a profound passion for Crossfit, a sport that demands both physical prowess and mental resilience. Engaging in Crossfit serves not only to enhance his physical fitness but also as a valuable outlet for the inherent mental stresses of rescue work. The discipline required in Crossfit mirrors Manua's approach to his profession—an amalgamation of focused effort and unyielding resilience. It acts as a poignant reminder that a well-rounded individual, both physically and mentally robust, is better equipped to navigate the challenges inherent in a demanding and unpredictable profession like rescue work.
Impressions of Rhino Rescue
Having recently discovered Rhino Rescue products, Manua is thoroughly impressed with the quality and effectiveness of the gear, specifically in areas such as controlling bleeding, airway management, fracture immobilization, and hypothermia prevention. He applauds Rhino Rescue for delivering top-notch equipment at a competitive cost, highlighting the brand's commitment to providing effective tools without compromising affordability.
Looking to the Future
Manua expresses contentment with his life, fueled by his passion for rescue work. However, he acknowledges the ever-changing nature of life and the physical demands of rescue operations. Contemplating a potential shift to a more tranquil role, he envisions returning to his roots as a nurse in a hospital or ambulance when the time is right.
As the chapters of Manua's life continue to unfold, he remains open to new projects and the prospect of acquiring new skills. Aware of the demanding nature of rescue work, he embraces change while cherishing the unpredictable journey life unfolds before him.
Manua's life story intricately weaves together the threads of life-saving dedication, a commitment to physical fitness, and an unyielding resilience in the face of challenges. It forms a narrative that resonates with inspiration and unwavering commitment. His journey stands as a testament to the transformative force found in the fusion of passion, tireless effort, and an unshakeable belief in making a difference—one rescue at a time.