SALT LAKE CITY, Utah, April 23, 2024 (Gephardt Daily) — Rudy Noorlander, victim of a savage grizzly bear attack more than seven months ago returned to the University of Utah Hospital where he met with the doctors, nurses and other caregivers who worked to save his life.
Noorlander was attacked on Sept. 8, 2023, while in Big Sky, Montana. After initial emergency surgery in Bozeman, Montana, he was flown to the University of Utah Hospital, where he received months of critical medical care.
During his stay at the U of U Hospital, Noorlander underwent four surgeries, including a complete jaw reconstruction and, most recently, the rebuilding of his mouth and lower lip.
He stayed as a resident patient for a full five weeks, where he returns for ongoing care, according to a news release issued by the hospital.
“Today, Rudy Noorlander reunited with some of his care team at University of Utah Health — most who have not seen him since he was first admitted to University of Utah Hospital,” the statement says.
“Rudy and his family were taken to various areas of the hospital where he spent much of his time while in our care. Staff in the Emergency Department, Surgical Intensive Care Unit, and acute care met with Rudy and his family. In most cases, care teams aren’t normally updated on the status of their patients.”
Noorlander exchanged thanks and smiles with staff members who had helped save his life and aided in his healing.
“I just want to make sure they knew that I appreciated everything they did,” Noorlander said in a released video clip of the visit.
“I wanted to come out and say ‘Hi’ and thank you again…. That I just wanted to make sure they knew I appreciated everything.”
To read more about Noorlander’s physically devastating bear encounter, see his family’s account on GoFundMe.
