Frozen Fifteen Feet from Safety: How Jean Hilliard Survived 6 Hours at -22°F | E170

In this episode, we revisit the riveting tale of Jessica McClure Morales, famously known as "Baby Jessica," who, at just 18 months old, fell into a well in Midland, Texas, in 1987. Over 56 tense hours, rescuers battled to free Jessica from the 8-inch well casing, employing innovative waterjet cutting technology. Amid drilling, the world listened as Jessica sang "Winnie the Pooh" from her precarious position. Media frenzy ensued, with CNN covering the global outpouring of support. President Ronald Reagan even declared the nation as Jessica's collective godparents. Photographer Scott Shaw received a Pulitzer for the iconic image capturing her rescue. The aftermath revealed Jessica's resilience, facing potential amputation but emerging with only a toe lost. Yet, the impact lingered, with paramedic Robert O'Donnell tragically succumbing to PTSD. This brief episode encapsulates the highs and lows, from the triumphant rescue to the personal struggles faced by those involved. Join us as we revisit the unforgettable events and the enduring impact on Baby Jessica and her rescuers.   References: https://snakkle.com/snakkle-exclusive-looking-back-on-baby-jessica/baby-jessica-pulitzer-photo-610x410/ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rescue_of_Jessica_McClure https://www.mamamia.com.au/baby-jessica-well/ https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1987-10-17-mn-3702-story.html Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

11 Dec 202327min

In this episode of The Crux, we delve into the harrowing story of 30-year-old Hjelle, who faced a life-threatening encounter with a mountain lion on January 8, 2004. Tune in as we explore the chilling details of the attack that unfolded while Hjelle was bike-riding in the serene Whiting Ranch Wilderness Park in Orange County, California. We recount the traumatic incident as the lion, unprovoked, seized Hjelle by her shoulders, dragging her by the back of her neck. The tension escalated when Hjelle's friend, Debi Nichols, bravely intervened, initiating a desperate tug-of-war with the ferocious feline. The drama unfolded as fellow riders joined forces, pelting rocks at the lion to force it to release its grip on Hjelle. Join us as we unravel the courage, quick thinking, and resilience displayed by these individuals in the face of a cougar's relentless power. This episode is a riveting exploration of the human spirit's ability to confront the unexpected and emerge stronger from the most terrifying ordeals. And, to clear up any confusion here are some stats Mountain Lion attacks in the US: In the past 100 years there have been 126 attacks, 27 of which were fatal. Bear attacks (in comparison) 180 fatal bear attacks in the US since 1784. There are about 11 bear attacks in the US per year, with roughly half of them being fatal.   All that to say, cougar attacks are rare!   References: https://abcnews.go.com/GMA/story?id=127825&page=1 https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2022/jan/04/saw-big-set-of-white-teeth-coming-towards-me-people-who-survived-wild-animal-attacks https://www.orangecountyoutdoors.com/wildlife/land-mammals/mountain-lion     Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

4 Dec 202326min

In this episode, we delve into the incredible story of Hugh Glass, a frontiersman and fur trapper whose will to survive surpassed the limits of human endurance. The narrative unfolds in the early 19th century as Glass embarks on a perilous expedition through the untamed wilderness. The focal point of the episode is the harrowing bear attack that nearly claimed his life. Glass, facing the sheer brutality of nature, finds himself in the jaws of a ferocious grizzly bear. Severely injured and left for dead by his expedition team, the odds seem insurmountable for Glass. However, what follows is nothing short of miraculous. Listen as Julie describes Glass's astounding journey as he defies death and embarks on an arduous 200-mile trek back to civilization. With determination as his only companion, he battles the elements, hunger, and the constant threat of hostile Native American tribes. Hugh Glass left behind legacy and lore, of a riveting journey through the wilderness, a testament to the strength of the human spirit, and an exploration of one man's incredible determination to defy the odds and make his way back from the brink of death to civilization. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

26 Nov 202326min

In our story today, we delve into the harrowing experience of Ruth Woroniecki, a 40-year-old adventurer who embarked on a seemingly idyllic hike to Cucamonga Peak, one of Los Angeles' most sought-after mountaintops, towering over 8,000 feet. Little did she know that her descent from the summit would become a life-changing ordeal. Picture this: the sun was shining brightly, casting a warm glow over the snow-covered landscape. As Ruth made her way down the mountain, a sense of tranquility enveloped her. But her serenity was short-lived. As she approached an exceptionally icy segment of the trail, her heart quickened with the realization that she was ill-equipped to traverse the perilous terrain with the necessary traction. The next thing she knew she was awakening after a 200 foot fall with some significant injuries. Resources/further reading: https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2023-02-23/have-mercy-on-me-hiker-tells-how-she-survived-200-foot-fall-from-ice-trail https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-11582707/Colorado-woman-40-SURVIVED-200-foot-fall-slipping-ice-California-hike.html https://ktla.com/news/local-news/woman-recalls-surviving-terrifying-fall-in-san-gabriel-mountains/ https://www.cbsnews.com/losangeles/news/hiker-recovering-after-200-foot-fall-while-hiking-near-cucamonga-peak/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

20 Nov 202326min

Today, we're taking on a tale of unparalleled grit and resilience as we delve into the incredible survival story of Lincoln Ross Hall on the unforgiving slopes of Mount Everest in 2006. Imagine the chilling heights of 8,700 meters, the thin air biting at your every breath, and the fierce winds howling through the icy expanse. It's here, in the heart of the Himalayas, that Lincoln Hall faced a night of unimaginable challenges. Declared dead and abandoned by his climbing team, Hall defied the odds and fought his way back from the brink. In this episode, we unravel the details of that fateful night, exploring the physical and mental fortitude that propelled Lincoln Hall to survive against all odds. We'll discuss the critical decisions he made, the sheer determination that kept him going, and the miraculous circumstances that led to his unexpected reunion with life. As we dissect this incredible tale of survival, we'll also draw insights into the broader world of high-altitude survival, examining the strategies and mindset that can mean the difference between life and death in the harshest environments on Earth. So, grab your gear, tighten your laces, and join us as we ascend into the thin air of Everest to uncover the remarkable survival saga of Lincoln Ross Hall in 2006. References: https://www.climbing-kilimanjaro.com/mount-everest-deaths/ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lincoln_Hall_(climber)#:~:text=Lincoln%20Hall%20narrowly%20survived%20after,to%20hallucinate%20and%20become%20confused. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i_RzNhxi-s8 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

13 Nov 202341min

Today, we take you back to a fateful day, April 26, 1976, when a simple journey turned into an extraordinary tale of resilience and survival. On that day, Lauren Elder made a life-altering decision to be the third passenger in a Cessna 182P, tail number N52855, embarking on a flight from Oakland International Airport in Oakland, California, with a destination set for Furnace Creek Airport in Death Valley's Furnace Creek. The pilot, a 36-year-old Jay Fuller who set course eastward, seemingly intending to follow the majestic Bubbs Creek up towards Kearsarge Pass. But as fate would have it, they veered off course, flying southeast into the rugged expanse of Center Basin, surrounded by towering peaks over 13,000 feet tall. While Lauren Elder sat in the back seat, enjoying the breathtaking mountain vistas, she suddenly found herself faced with an imminent disaster when the plane encountered a forceful down draft, sending the plane into a wall of granite. Lauren’s life would be forever altered. Join us as we delve into the remarkable story of Lauren Elder's harrowing adventure in the Sierra Nevada, exploring the trials, the resilience, and the triumph that define her incredible journey. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lauren_Elder https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-2006-may-07-me-then7-story.htmlhttps://www.worthpoint.com/worthopedia/1978-press-photo-lauren-elder-3567543928 https://fearoflanding.com/accidents/the-amazing-survival-of-lauren-elder/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

6 Nov 202337min

In this episode of The Crux True Survival Stories, we bring you the incredible account of Warren McDonald, who overcame immense challenges when trapped under a colossal boulder for two relentless days on the remote Hinchinbrook Island. Join us as we explore the stark reality of Warren's struggle, from life-threatening injuries to a perilous environment, all against the backdrop of the pristine yet unforgiving Hinchinbrook Island. But this story is not just about survival; it's about the development of an unexpected one-day friendship. Meet Geert Van Keulen, the newfound companion whose crucial role in Warren's survival story can't be overstated. Geert had to embark on an arduous journey through the dense jungle to call for help, while Warren had to place his faith in this newfound friend to make it through. Tune in to discover the incredible bond that forms under the most extreme circumstances and the unbreakable spirit that propels Warren forward in the face of daunting adversity. This is a tale of survival, camaraderie, and the sheer determination to defy the odds in the wilds of Hinchinbrook Island.   Resources: https://www.warren-macdonald.com/story https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-03-22/warren-macdonald-lost-both-legs-in-a-hiking-accident/102124756 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9sFUpQZpaNA https://parks.des.qld.gov.au/parks/hinchinbrook https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hinchinbrook_Island Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

30 Okt 202330min

In a heartbreaking incident at the picturesque Mammoth Mountain ski area, three dedicated ski patrol members lost their lives when they fell into a geothermal vent. These selfless heroes were working tirelessly to secure the area and protect skiers from the inherent dangers of this natural phenomenon. The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the Eastern Sierra, a region that has already witnessed its fair share of sorrow this winter season, with a total of eight fatalities at the resort alone and at least 13 skiers losing their lives across California. Join us in this episode as we delve deep into the events that unfolded on that fateful day, uncovering the heroic efforts of the ski patrollers and the challenging environment they faced at Mammoth Mountain. Learn about the unique geological features of this stunning but perilous landscape, where geothermal vents, also known as fumaroles, are not uncommon. We'll discuss the dangers and challenges associated with these vents and explore the safety measures in place to protect skiers and adventurers. This episode pays tribute to the brave ski patrol members who risked it all to ensure the safety of others, shedding light on their dedication, sacrifice, and the unwavering spirit that defines them. Don't miss this poignant episode as we remember the lives lost, honor the heroes, and reflect on the somber reality of the 2006 winter season in California.   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

22 Okt 202326min