Aaron Ralston is a mountaineer, adventurer, and motivational speaker whose incredible story of survival has inspired millions around the world. Born on October 27, 1975, in Marion, Ohio, Ralston grew up in Colorado, where he developed a deep love for the outdoors. After earning a degree in mechanical engineering from Carnegie Mellon University, he left a promising career to pursue his passion for climbing and adventure. Ralston set an ambitious goal to climb all 59 of Colorado's "fourteeners" (peaks over 14,000 feet) solo during the winter, a feat that had never been accomplished.
Ralston's life changed forever in April 2003 during a solo canyoneering trip in Utah's Blue John Canyon. While navigating the narrow slot canyon, an 800-pound boulder dislodged and pinned his right arm against the canyon wall. Trapped and with limited supplies, Ralston spent five days trying to free himself, rationing his water and recording goodbye messages to his family. Realizing that his only chance of survival was to amputate his arm, he made the harrowing decision to do so using a dull multi-tool. After freeing himself, he hiked over six miles to safety, where he was rescued by a search helicopter.
Ralston's extraordinary story of survival was chronicled in his memoir, Between a Rock and a Hard Place, which was later adapted into the critically acclaimed film 127 Hours (2010), starring James Franco. His experience has made him a sought-after motivational speaker, sharing lessons about resilience, determination, and the human spirit. Despite the life-altering event, Ralston continues to embrace adventure, climbing mountains, skiing, and inspiring others to overcome challenges and live life to the fullest. His story is a testament to the power of courage and the will to survive against all odds.
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