4 months is a long time confined to a tiny space, hence, the miners need to preserve a calm mood and a healthy mind. To aid that, they requested a pack of poker cards through the 6 inch (15cm) tube, which, at the moment is their only connection with the outside world and in which they receive food and supplies. They are playing poker ever since. The daughter of Frank Lobos, 53-year-old miner (former national football player) told Daily Mirror she is optimistic, and that her father will be alright because of this:
"It will be difficult, I'm sure, but I'm not worried about him," Caroline said. "I know he is happy and content down there because he is playing lots of poker and cards. It is good for his mind."
Doctors reassure, as they say miners need an activity that they enjoy and keeps them mentally stimulated, but does not take a lot of room, and poker is a very good choice for that.
Rescue seems to take until Christmas, so they will need to keep playing for a long time now, let's hope they all make it out fine.
