The Remarkable Survival of John Vihtelic: 16 Days Trapped in a Ravine | E116

The CRUX: True Survival Stories

In this episode of The Crux True Survival Stories, hosts Julie Henningsen and Kaycee McIntosh recount the incredible survival story of John Vitalik. After a spontaneous detour to Mount Hood in September 1976, John's car plunged 150 feet down a steep ravine. With his foot pinned by a tree root and swelling from a punctured lung, John used his resourcefulness and mechanical skills to survive by creating makeshift tools to access water and eventually free himself. Despite his dire situation, John maintained routines that kept his morale high. After 16 days, he managed to escape and seek help, ultimately surviving and leading an inspiring post-ordeal life.
00:00 Introduction to The Crux True Survival Stories
00:41 John Vitalik's Background and Journey
01:48 The Accident on Mount Hood
03:14 Trapped in the Ravine
10:03 Resourcefulness and Survival Tactics
16:04 The Importance of Routine in Survival
16:26 Ingenious Escape Plan
18:24 The Final Breakthrough
20:32 Rescue and Recovery
22:27 Life After the Ordeal
24:35 Survival Tips and Reflections
28:14 Podcast Outro and Listener Engagement

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