A 32-year-old nurse experienced a terrifying incident while scaling the highest peak in Montana alongside two companions. The excursion took a tragic turn for David Cifaldi when he slipped on the rocky terrain and landed on his trekking pole.
Cifaldi, accompanied by his friends, embarked on the ascent of Granite Peak on July 20, but their journey did not unfold as planned. Recounting the mishap, Cifaldi described it as an unexpected occurrence more akin to a minor injury like rolling an ankle.
Despite his condition, Cifaldi opted for self-rescue rather than waiting for assistance, trekking 10 miles back to the starting point. Throughout the challenging descent, the pole remained lodged in his body.
Using his running vest’s chest strap as an improvised sling, and with one friend monitoring potential bleeding, Cifaldi and his companions endured a strenuous six-and-a-half-hour journey.
The trekking pole pierced Cifaldi’s side, penetrating his lat muscle and protruding from both ends, with approximately eight inches separating the two wounds, as per a GoFundMe campaign initiated by a friend.
Upon reaching the trailhead, Cifaldi was transported to a hospital where medical professionals successfully removed the pole without complications.
The GoFundMe initiative was launched by Jesse Ross, one of the friends who accompanied Cifaldi on the hike. Ross detailed their expedition, mentioning their destination and the unfortunate accident that occurred at an elevation of 11,800 feet.
Transitioning from the fall to the pole’s removal spanned around 8-9 hours, according to Ross. Cifaldi is currently under medical care and facing substantial healthcare expenses.
To support Cifaldi’s recovery, donations can be made through the GoFundMe page linked here.
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