A Tale of Two Risks: Self Rescue and the Cost of Saving Lives A recent incident involving David Cifaldi, a 32 year old nurse who impaled himself on his trekking pole while hiking in Montana's Froze to Death Plateau, has left many stunned.
Not just because of the gruesome nature of the accident, but also because of Cifaldi's decision to self rescue. At first glance, Cifaldi's actions may seem reckless or even irresponsible.
However, as his story unfolds, it becomes clear that he had a unique understanding of his own condition and the risks involved in seeking external help. As someone who works in wound care at St.