33 miners trapped far below the surface of the earth in Chile for 19 days have been found not only alive but in fine spirits. Rationed to near starvation everyone would have expected them to be in dire mental and physical straits, however
"We're good," replied Urzúa. "Waiting to be rescued." The foreman was drowned out as his trapped colleagues applauded, cheered and, in a spontaneous outburst that brought tears to the eyes of those on the surface, sang Chile's national anthem.
Such amazing courage brings tears to anyone's eyes, it is almost unbelievable how they have all held each other together for so long. It gives great hope that they can endure the following four months underground safely.
I would like to suggest that we all write letters of support to their families and the men themselves, send them to the Ministry of Mines, hopefully a local support group will be set up where all our best wishes can be sent. The psychological stress will be great and I believe any message of support will help these men reach the surface and their loved ones safely.
The men appear to be healthy and optimistic but are likely to be confined in a tiny shelter 688 metres underground for up to four months while relief crews bore an extraction shaft.
According to officials at the Chilean health ministry, conditions in the chamber are similar to those faced by submarine crews or astronauts on the international space station.
Get involved and keep them busy, cheer them on through the coming months.
"Get them involved," Thompson said. "Send them mini-thermometers, weighing machines. Divide the time into night and day. Have the day begin at 8.30, make Saturday and Sunday different."
Also let them know by spending a few minutes that many around the world have them in our thoughts and prayers. Four months is a dreadfully long time and anything that breaks the monotony will help.
Its an inspiring story so far I look forward to the day that these courageous men once again see the light of day and their families.
Action
Now to write that letter.
If anyone knows a better address to send my letters, please put it in the comments and I will add it here.