He Survived an Eruption on Mount Ruapehu - William Pike on Losing his Leg & Life as an Amputee
- Sep 4, 2024
- 1:39:25
- Full Episode
On September 25, 2007 William Pike was taking a mate up to the top of Mount Ruapehu. The two climbers made it to a little hut called the Dome Shelter then shortly after, in the cold and dark of night, the mountain erupted.
As a torrent of rocks, water and mud streamed down and smashed into their shelter, William was crushed and trapped and left fighting for his life.
When he woke up in hospital, his right leg had been amputated below the knee.
The medical staff who worked on him called his survival a miracle.
After multiple surgeries and a full-on rehabilitation, William learned to walk again with a prosthetic limb – and what he’s done with his life since is nothing short of inspirational.
This is part of the incredible William Pike story- an absolute masterclass in resilience.
Brief Summary
William Pike shares his survival story from a volcanic eruption, his leg amputation, and how he inspires youth through the William Pike Challenge.
Key points
- William Pike's Remarkable Journey. William shares his incredible story of resilience after losing his leg in an accident.
- The Day Everything Changed. William recounts the terrifying moment of the volcanic eruption that changed his life.
- The Longest Five Hours. After James leaves, he calculates the time he has left before rescue may arrive.
- A Grateful Perspective. Despite losing a leg, he finds gratitude in being alive and looks forward to the future.
- The Journey of Recovery. Navigating the emotional and physical challenges post-accident, building confidence and optimism.
- A Return to the Mountains. Revisiting Dome Hut five years after the accident, a significant milestone in recovery.
Episode highlights
- William Pike's Remarkable JourneyWilliam shares his incredible story of resilience after losing his leg in an accident.“You epitomize making lemonade from lemons.”2:34Sep 4, 2024
- The Day Everything ChangedWilliam recounts the terrifying moment of the volcanic eruption that changed his life.“I was stuck, mouth just erupted, I was cold getting hypothermic.”17:40Sep 4, 2024
- The Longest Five HoursAfter James leaves, he calculates the time he has left before rescue may arrive.“I worked out in my mind that it could take the rescuers 10 hours to get there.”21:13Sep 4, 2024
- A Grateful PerspectiveDespite losing a leg, he finds gratitude in being alive and looks forward to the future.“I lost my leg but I’m still alive.”33:03Sep 4, 2024
- The Journey of RecoveryNavigating the emotional and physical challenges post-accident, building confidence and optimism.“Just digging myself out of that hole was very difficult.”38:56Sep 4, 2024
- A Return to the MountainsRevisiting Dome Hut five years after the accident, a significant milestone in recovery.“2012 was a good year, we charged up that mountain.”47:21Sep 4, 2024
- The William Pike ChallengeA program inspiring young people to step outside their comfort zones through outdoor activities and community service.“We're all about inspiring young people to step outside their comfort zone.”1:00:58Sep 4, 2024
- Media Interest After the AccidentWilliam discusses how he chose to embrace media opportunities post-accident, shaping his journey.“I thought, I'm going to grab this opportunity and go on an adventure.”1:05:01Sep 4, 2024
