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/

83) Ruth Woroniecki: 200 Foot Fall on Cucamonga Peak

Are you drawn to thrilling survival stories where characters overcome impossible odds? The Crux: True Survival Stories is your podcast. Join us for gripping tales of resilience and invaluable insights into wilderness survival and the mindset needed to overcome adversity. Hosted by Kaycee McIntosh and Julie Henningsen, both passionate about wilderness and medicine, our podcast is fueled by real-life stories and the pivotal moments that determine life or death outcomes.

Tune in for captivating narratives that entertain and educate. Airing every Monday!

Society & Culture

Personal Journals

History

Philosophy

Places & Travel

Documentary

On this episode of The Crux True Survival Stories podcast, our story comes directly from one of our listeners. Tune in today as Kaycee interviews Melanie, an outdoor enthusiast who had a less than pleasant and unexpected encounter with a kangaroo. Originally from England, Melanie has lived in Australia since she was six months old and shares a love for outdoor activities with her son.
During the episode, Melanie recounts the dramatic story of hiking with her son, friends, and their children when they tried to free a baby kangaroo stuck in a fence. This well-intentioned act led to a terrifying attack by the mother kangaroo. Melanie describes how she was injured during the attack, the emergency response, and her recovery process. She emphasizes the unpredictability of wild animals and the importance of calling professionals in such situations.
The discussion also covers Melanie's reflections on the aftermath of the incident, including her scar and the public reaction to her story. Throughout the interview, she shares insights into her passion for the outdoors and the lessons she's learned from this harrowing experience.
If you have a story to share or a topic you would like us to explore, you can email us here thecruxsurvival@gmail.com or on instagram @thecruxpodcast. Thank you so much for listening and for all of your support.

107) Surviving a Kangaroo Attack: Melanie's True Outback Encounter

In this gripping two-part episode, listeners are transported back to the stormy sea on January 23rd, 1995, where Coast Guard rescuer Michael Odom faces the ultimate test of skill and courage. Part one sets the stage as Coast Guard Helicopter 6019 hovers above the turbulent waves, and Odom prepares for the perilous mission ahead - the rescue of survivors from the battered sailboat Mirage. But just as the rescue operation is underway, a sudden twist throws everything into chaos.
In part two, the tension escalates as Odom finds himself alone in the unforgiving Atlantic Ocean, left behind by the very helicopter he served to save others. Buffeted by waves and battling exhaustion, Odom's harrowing struggle for survival unfolds against the backdrop of a relentless winter storm. With each passing moment, the odds of rescue grow slimmer, and Odom is forced to confront the grim reality of his situation.
As listeners hold their breath, they are drawn into Odom's desperate fight for survival, wondering if he will defy the odds once again or if the stormy sea will claim yet another victim. Tune in to this pulse-pounding conclusion of high-stakes rescue on the high seas to discover the fate of Michael Odom and the sailors he fought so bravely to save.

106) Part Two: Left for Dead-Michael Odom's Ocean Standoff

In this gripping episode, set against the unforgiving backdrop of the stormy sea on January 23rd, 1995, Coast Guard rescuer Michael Odom faces the ultimate test of skill and courage.
As Coast Guard Helicopter 6019 hovers above the turbulent waves, Odom meticulously prepares for the perilous mission ahead - the rescue of survivors from the battered sailboat Mirage.
But just as Odom braces himself for the daunting task of plucking sailors from the angry sea, a sudden twist throws the mission into chaos. The captain of the Mirage refuses to abandon ship, defying the Coast Guard's orders and jeopardizing the lives of everyone onboard.
Caught in a tense standoff, Odom and his fellow rescuers face a heart-wrenching dilemma: save all or risk losing them all. But before a decision can be reached, a desperate sailor takes matters into their own hands, plunging into the icy waters below.
Now, with time running out and the storm raging fiercer than ever, Odom must summon every ounce of strength and determination to save not just the stranded sailors, but also himself. Battling exhaustion and the relentless fury of the elements, he knows that the odds are stacked against him.
Will Odom defy the odds and emerge victorious in his race against time? Or will the stormy sea claim yet another victim in its unforgiving embrace? Find out in this pulse-pounding episode of high-stakes rescue on the high seas.
Resources:
https://www.usni.org/magazines/proceedings/1995/august/nineteen-talk-me
https://scholar.lib.vt.edu/VA-news/VA-Pilot/issues/1995/vp950126/01260374.htm

105) Part One: Coast Guard Rescue Gone Wrong - Michael Odom's Ocean Standoff

Join us on a journey through one of history's most harrowing natural disasters in this episode of The Crux, led by our host Julie Henningson. Picture yourself amidst the ordinary rhythms of life, navigating through your day on a rainy afternoon, when suddenly, a cataclysmic force interrupts the tranquility.
In 1889, in the heart of Pennsylvania, the South Fork Dam burst, and what followed was a monstrous wall of water, holding within it 3.8 billion gallons, surged forth with terrifying speed for the towns below. But this was not just water; it was a relentless force of nature, carrying along with it a deadly payload of buildings, livestock, and debris. Its origins traced back to the Cambria Ironworks, where it amassed a deadly arsenal of barbed wire and railroad cars before hurtling towards unsuspecting communities.
At 40 miles per hour, there was no escape from its wrath. Residents were thrust into a nightmare scenario, facing the impossible task of outrunning a deluge of biblical proportions. The sheer force of the flood tore through the landscape, ripping the very topsoil from the earth as it swept everything in its path with the unstoppable ferocity only moving water can possess.
In today's episode, we delve into the chilling details of the Great Johnstown Flood, a calamity etched into the annals of history as a stark reminder of nature's awesome power and humanity's vulnerability in the face of its fury. Tune in as we uncover the tragic events and explore the profound impact this disaster had on the lives of those caught in its merciless grip.

104) A Broken Dam Leads to a 60 Foot Water Wall that Pummeled a Town: The Johnstown Flood

Join Kaycee McIntosh and Julie Henningsen as they uncover the gripping tale of sea captain Christopher B. Sheldon and his fateful journey aboard the Albatross. In this episode of "The Crux True Survival Stories" podcast, listeners are transported back to 1961, where Sheldon's Ocean Academy becomes the backdrop for a chilling encounter with nature's fury.
Through Julie's narrative, audiences are introduced to the Albatross's rich history, tracing its journey from the North Sea to its role as an educational vessel. With vivid detail, she recounts the tragic events of May 2nd, 1961, when a sudden white squall capsizes the Albatross, leaving its crew, including Sheldon's wife Alice, in a fight for survival on the open sea.
In the aftermath of the disaster, Julie delves into the courageous efforts of the survivors and the enduring legacy of Christopher Sheldon. From Coast Guard investigations to Sheldon's later endeavors with the Peace Corps, the Albatross saga exemplifies the resilience of the human spirit in the face of hardship.
"The Crux True Survival Stories" offers a captivating exploration of courage and tragedy, where each twist and turn reveals the extraordinary lengths we'll go to survive against all odds. Join Kaycee and Julie on this unforgettable voyage, where every moment is a testament to the indomitable human spirit.

83) Ruth Woroniecki: 200 Foot Fall on Cucamonga Peak

Download our free app to listen on your phone