Head count...
Of course the number who survive, even though very fucked up, has increased dramatically with medical attention quicker. Starting with MASH in Korea, helicopters are key to rapid extradition. and guys like sexo are capable of miracles in the field. But honestly, when I see pictures of some who have been saved, I wonder if it's the right thing. Ethically of course, yes, no question. I'm not talking about Tom Cruise in a wheelchair here, some survive so maimed the life they face a life makes me wonder if we did them a favor.
Of the many fuckups in my life, one most vivid was maybe twenty years ago I stopped at WAWA to buy a lighter. Fishing for my wallet, I didn't pay attention girl behind the counter. She fetched the lighter and when she turned around her face was horribly disfigured, likely partially burned. I stared so hard I didn't even notice when she set the lighter on the counter and put her hand out for the money. When I realized what I'd done I dropped my eyes in shame and beat a hasty retreat. I went back several times determined to not make her uncomfortable, but she was never there again. Probably quit after one day, at least partially because of me. It haunts me to this day.
