Well said Lynda (SP2).
You and Neil "belong" because you do know your "limitations".
Of course we all could run into violent weather/lightning strikes, things we really have NO control over, but the vast MAJORITY of accidents ANYWHERE are the result of poor planning or not knowing your capabilities.
 I cringe every time I read a story about people who have the cash to pay for exotic but dangerous adventure trips in remote areas of the globe. They don't have the skills but find some outfitter/guide, who's willing to take them for the right price. We all have too learn somehow, but it seems nowadays a lot of people think having the means too do "something" is the same as having the "skills" Common sense tells you to ease into new situations, ego and pride tells you to jump-in and let someone else bail you out when you crash and burn >:(
 When disaster strikes, often by their OWN hand, and the guide can't save them all, they fully expect others too risk their life's to save them, with little regard to the "rescuers" life and limb. I think it's a sense of "entitlement" that many nowadays seem too have :(
 Too me a "wilderness" trip is ANYWHERE that gives a reasonable chance of ME being put into a death/serious injury position, and ME being the ONE who will make it or not based on my abilities and will too survive.
I would GLADLY accept help, but I damn sure don't count on it or feel that other's should be put in harms way because I made foolish decisions.
I get Travelinman's comments. I don't say let them "die", but when the situation is self inflicted, they should at least pay any financial cost the rescue accrues.
We ALL have too make our own decisions on how much " risk" were willing too accept for a "wilderness" experience, I don't think that "counting" on others for help, should be part of your "trip plan".
I carry a lot of "self help" things, that THANK GOD, I've never had too use! When I read stories like Marlin55388, it doesn't seem like such a "burden" ;)