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Montana man, impaled by trekking pole, hikes out of mountains to get help
CBS News • • nation
Key Points:
- David Cifaldi, a nurse from Billings, Montana, accidentally impaled himself on a trekking pole while hiking near Granite Peak, Montana's highest summit.
- Despite the injury, which involved a 44-inch steel-tipped pole piercing under his left arm and protruding from his back, Cifaldi assessed his condition and decided to self-rescue with his two companions.
- Using a satellite communication device, the group informed local authorities of their plan and carefully hiked about 10 miles down the mountain over six hours to reach a trailhead and vehicle.
- Search and rescue monitored their progress but respected Cifaldi's decision to decline assistance, as he was alert and had experienced companions.
- After reaching a hospital for treatment and having the pole removed, Cifaldi recovered quickly and returned to work, attributing his survival to his medical knowledge, friends' support, and the ability to contact authorities if needed.
