Most of the time here at TIFI, we focus on fixing things. But today I wanted to share something I stumbled across that focuses on fixing a person.
In 1961, a twelve man Soviet crew was building a new base in the Antarctic. Mindful that being trapped in sub-zero temperatures for months on end required a medical professional to be on hand, one doctor had been assigned to the team. So what happens when the only man capable of performing surgery comes down with a severe case of appendicitis? He does what any reasonably minded person would do. Performs an appendectomy…on himself. There, he fixed it.
UPDATE: Thanks to everyone who commented. The response was overwhelmingly positive! If you posted a link to another historical kludge, you rock and I’ll be filing those away for future use. If you come across a kludge from history, please submit it or email it to me at thereifixedit@gmail.com. Until we either run out of suggestions or interest I’ll be posting one historical kludge every Thursday afternoon! – Ms. Fix-It
