International Women’s Day Profile: Alison

International Women’s Day Profile: Alison

Alison Gallagher
Tayside MRT & Scottish Cave Rescue Organisation

I have been a member of the Scottish Cave Rescue Organisation (SCRO) since 2005, and Tayside Mountain Rescue since 2010. I am the medical officer for SCRO, and one of the team doctors in Tayside MRT. 

I became involved with SCRO as a medical student, then joined as a full member after qualifying as a doctor. A few years later I attended the WEMSI-International Wilderness Physician course, where I met some of Tayside MRT including the team leader at the time. Mountain rescue seemed like a natural next step.  

Many years ago, as a 12 year old on a weekend trip to Skye, two members of the group we were with were overdue. Watching the rescue unfold and the skill of those involved had a big impact, and sewed the seed that led me to where I am today. 

My first rescue was a patient with a fractured ankle in a cave in Assynt. I’ll never forget getting them to the surface and handing them over to Assynt MRT. 

The hardest thing about being in a team is dashing out of the door when a call out comes, leaving my two boys in the middle of whatever we are doing. I find prolonged searches particularly challenging. But on the flipside, the most rewarding thing is the knowledge of a job well done. 

 I couldn’t ask for better team mates. They’re dedicated, committed and always keen to share knowledge. Every one of them is an asset to the team, and all bring their own individual mix of skills. Both teams train to respond to a very different set of challenges. They’re a great bunch and I’d trust every one of them in any situation. 

 I’ve learnt so many things from being in a team! I have been humbled by how advanced the cas carers’ medical skills are. It has taught me a huge amount about team work. 

 We’ve had two years of record numbers of call outs for Tayside MRT, and seen an increase in less experienced and less well prepared people.

 Within both Tayside MRT and SCRO the future is very bright as we continue to develop. If the past two years are any indication then TMRT are likely to have another busy year. I will continue to support the medical teaching within both teams, and ensure our patients receive the best care possible.