Runner Survives Month in Wilderness Before Rescue in October 2024
- Robert Schock, an ultra-runner in Washington state, was missing for a month after getting lost in a national park.
- He survived by eating mushrooms and wild berries, despite deteriorating health as he struggled to find his way.
- The incident emphasizes the critical importance of preparation and safety measures when running or hiking in wilderness areas.
In Washington state, a 39-year-old ultra-runner named Robert Schock was reported missing for a month after getting lost in a national park. During his time in the wilderness, he faced life-threatening conditions and survived by foraging for mushrooms and wild berries, which he later described as 'nasty.' His ordeal began when he went out for a run, unexpectedly losing communication and using only an old trail map to navigate his way. As days passed, his physical condition deteriorated significantly, leaving him close to death by August 30. Schock's survival was a testament to human resilience and resourcefulness under dire situations. When he was finally rescued by a trail maintenance crew, he shared his disbelief that such an experience could happen to him. This case sparked discussions on outdoor safety and the importance of preparation for activities in wilderness areas, as well as highlighting the potential dangers of getting lost without proper equipment and guidance.