An Arizona man is still recovering from a dramatic 700-foot fall while attempting to climb Oregon’s highest peak last month, but he says he plans to return and conquer the mountain that nearly claimed his life.
Chris Zwierzynski, 55, from Scottsdale, survived a harrowing fall on Mount Hood on July 6, according to Channel 12 News in Arizona. This doesn’t happen to everybody, Zwierzynski said. Most doctors and my family keep calling it a miracle that I survived. Maybe I am.”
Zwierzynski had set a goal at age 50 to climb the highest peaks in each state, focusing recently on the more challenging Western mountains. I want to do it while I’m still young, he said.
His climb on the 11,200-foot Mount Hood near Portland ended badly, requiring a National Guard rescue. He spent four days in intensive care with severe injuries, including broken ribs, a broken ankle, and facial fractures. His wife, Laurie, described him as nearly unrecognizable: His eyes were swollen shut, his eye sockets were broken, his nose was broken in two places, and he had two brain bleeds and a concussion.
Despite his injuries, Zwierzynski focused on his family while in the hospital, unable to imagine their distress. Laurie recalled the shock of receiving the news and said her only response was to pray and trust in God.
The couple’s positive mindset and faith helped them through the ordeal. He could have been brain-dead, paralyzed, or had amnesia, Laurie said. I thank God every day that he’s still here.
Zwierzynski set goals for his recovery, and his determination is paying off. A recent CT scan showed that his facial fractures are healing well, and he has begun therapy to regain mobility. Despite some ongoing numbness and fatigue, he remains optimistic and grateful for the support he’s received.
I haven’t lost my will or positive attitude, Zwierzynski said. This is thanks to your support and friendship. He plans to return to Mount Hood, possibly with a guide, to complete his challenge. I think it’s definitely doable, he said.
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