Hiking Nurse Survives Pole Impalement, Treks 10 Miles for Aid

WHO:

Fox News - David Cifaldi, a wound care nurse

WHAT:

Fox News - Cifaldi was impaled by a trekking pole in a freak accident.

NY Post - Cifaldi hiked for 10 miles to seek help after the accident.

NY Post - Cifaldi expressed gratitude, stating, "I feel very lucky."

WHERE:

Fox News - The incident occurred at 11,800 feet on Montana's Granite Peak.

WHY:

NY Post - Cifaldi described the incident as a "freak thing."

HOW:

Fox News - Cifaldi managed to trek 10 miles to find assistance after being injured.

(UPDATED July 27, 2026 21:22 UTC)

In a remarkable survival story, David Cifaldi, a wound care nurse, was impaled by a trekking pole during a freak accident on Montana's Granite Peak, which stands at 11,800 feet. After the incident, Cifaldi hiked an impressive ten miles to seek help, expressing his gratitude by stating, "I feel very lucky." This extraordinary journey highlights not only his resilience but also the unexpected challenges that can arise in the great outdoors.