by,

Suzanne Coleman, MD

Wow, tonight’s episode was ridiculous, I can say I’m still upset over it.  And looking at facebook, I’m not the only one.

We watched three or more people do very physical work in extremely hot conditions without any water and get sick because of it.  I watched “medical” not provide hydration for these people.  I don’t know if it’s against the rules or what but that is what they needed, plus cooling, and I sat there getting more and more upset as they showed the video and no one was taking care of these victims.  I know how serious this condition is, I’ve been through this myself.

The show ended up removing Caleb by helicopter.  Caleb is one of most people’s favorites, he seems like such a great person, caring, funny, hardworking.  A great example to others.  He worked his rear off to try and get his team to win the challenge and ended up risking his life.  All for some salt and pepper…

A lot of people online are calling the show out for unsafe conditions and going too far.  Where will it end?  Will we end up with real-life to-the-death gladiator comps?  I don’t know.  I hope not.  Providing water and shade are reasonable options.  I realize it is “Survivor,” but if no one survives… then what?

The other awful part of tonight’s show was the abuse of a woman on the “brawn tribe.”  Two large men bullied and emotionally abused this small woman.  They badgered her, they demeaned her, they belittled her.  This happens all over the world all of the time, and it needs TO END.  This is chauvinistic and misogynistic bigotry.  It’s disgusting.  These “men” are sad examples of the human race.  I feel sorry for anyone who has to interact with them or anyone like them.  But, unfortunately, I think all women and girls have been there, way too often.  I know I have.

The great thing to come out of this horrible episode was seeing so many people on facebook calling these bullying bigots OUT.  Both men and women were posting, angered by their awful behavior.  These people know right from wrong and having the strength and moral character to stand up to them, that is what I like to see.  THANK YOU PEOPLE!  Keep it up!  You are the real heroes.