Hank Klimitas

Twice a Survivor: a Katrina Journal Hank Klimitas

At the end of August 2005, Hurricane Katrina slammed into New Orleans. Twice A Survivor recounts the first few days after the resultant flooding began. As author Hank Klimitas-a retired veterinarian and a double lung-transplant recipient-listens to the radio and waits to be rescued, he records his thoughts, remembrances, and life's details. During these long days, Klimitas ponders questions such as the following: I have three jugs of water, how much would I sell one of them for?Can I walk away?I think the question would be, if you stayed, why weren't you prepared?Will this be my final resting place?So why am I still here?Through it all, Klimitas's positive mental outlook and survivalist attitude are evident. Whether he is describing his meager meals or the numerous times he hears boats or helicopters pass on to those who need help more urgently than he, Twice A Survivor is a fitting testament to the American spirit as displayed by Klimitas in a time of great uncertainty and devastation."An amazing story. This is a stunningly clear account of one man's life in New Orleans after the floodwaters came. We're right there with him, savoring flashbacks to the people he has known over the years the remembered closeness of his family and the Robinson Crusoe-like challenges of satisfying life's basic needs in such a bleak environment. Best of all, it's a Katrina thriller with a happy ending."George AndersAuthor of the New York Times best seller Perfect Enough