MaineToday.com | Trail Head: The incredible story of Aron Ralston

If there's a trail — be it snow, dirt, water or concrete — outdoors nut Carey Kish will find it. Follow his Maine outdoor adventures in his blog.

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September 14, 2004

The incredible story of Aron Ralston

On Friday night, September 10th, NBCs Dateline aired the incredible story of Aron Ralston, the 27 year-old Colorado adventurer who cut off his own arm in order to extract himself from a slot canyon in the Utah wilderness where he had been trapped for six days. I taped the show--Desperate Days in Blue John Canyon--and watched it spellbound last evening.

Ralston's story is beyond amazing. I'm still shaking my head. Could I--could you--cut off your own arm to save your life? It's hard to say isn't it? I've been in some pretty sticky situations in the backcountry, but nothing--nothing--even remotely approached what Ralston experienced. Six days in a remote canyon with your right armed pinned by an immovable boulder, with enough supplies to last only for a day hike, and with hope dwindling even more as each hour, each day passed. But finally, with a do-or-die determination, Ralston summoned the courage to do the unthinkable--to free himself and live--by sawing off his arm with a dull knife. And after that incredible act, to have the strength to get himself out to help. Unbelievable!

Not to take anything at all away from Ralston, but it's likely that the ordeal could have been avoided had he not broken one of the cardinal rules of backcountry travel: Tell somebody where you're going and when you expect to be back. Ralston repeatedly stressed that fact during the interview. All backcountry traveler's should heed his advice, even for short trips away from the road and car.

I'm ordering his book Between a Rock and a Hard Place as we speak. I'm figuring it will be a great read.

Posted by Carey Kish at 03:03 PM

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Comments

Hello Carey,
I was wondering if you would sell me a copy of the Dateline special you taped about Aron Ralston? I have been unable to find a copy and was hoping you might do this. Thanks.
Debbie

Posted by Debbie
December 25, 2004 03:18 PM

I would like to buy a copy of the Aron Ralson tape you made.

Posted by Julie Donnelly
January 12, 2005 01:59 PM

Currently I am teaching a survival unit to my 8th grade students. I, too, would like to purchase a copy of the Dateline special. Please email me.

Posted by Olivia
January 16, 2005 03:36 PM

If you are making copies of the Dateline special, I would love a copy. I could send you a blank tape and money for shipping. I would be ever so appreciative. Thank you. Feel free to e-mail me.

Posted by Laurie
January 18, 2005 07:44 PM

Hello Carey. I happened upon Tom Brokaw's special on Aron Ralston this past fall and was extremely moved by it. My husband did not see it and would really love to. We just finished his book the other night. If you haven't read it yet you must soon. It is an unbelievable read. I know you have had several requests for copies of your coveted tape of the NBC special. Are you sharing? Can I please get a copy? I would be happy to send you a blank tape, cash, you name it! Thanks. -Meg

Posted by Meg
January 31, 2005 08:49 PM

You sure have a lotta requests for videos!

Posted by Lucy
February 17, 2005 01:52 AM

Hey Carey,

So what did you decide about sharing your tape?

Have you ever been so popular?

Please let me know if it's possible to receive a copy and what you would require in return.

Thanks a lot! Bonnie

Posted by Bonnie
April 6, 2005 09:42 PM

I am doing a book review on Aron Ralston next month. I would love to share the Dateline: Between a Rock and a Hard Place. NBC is not selling copies. Are you? I would love one. Thanks, K. Goodman

Posted by K. Goodman
April 26, 2005 10:35 AM

I too am looking for a copy of the Dateline special to share with my classes. Any help in directing me to a source would be helpful.

Thank you.

Tanya

Posted by Tanya
April 26, 2005 08:15 PM

I'm looking for a copy of your Dateline special with Ralston. I just finished reading the book with my class. Please let me know If your willing to sell me a copy or willing to share your copy.

Posted by Doreen candelaria
May 10, 2005 05:50 PM

I caught part of a special on TV on Aron Ralston's accident but could not watch it at the time. Aron was taken back to the scene. I have been trying to find out since then who produced it and where I could get a copy. I now assume that the Dateline special is what I saw. If so, I would like to purchase a copy if possible. Thank you. sgcdds@comcast.net

Posted by Susan
May 11, 2005 04:55 PM

TLC is showing "The Aron Ralston Story - Trapped in a Canyon" this week. May 18 Wednesday, and May 22 Sunday. It is a near carbon-copy of the same show as presented by NBCs Dateline last September. Tom Brokaw, 2 hours long.

Posted by Kal Perry
May 16, 2005 05:49 PM

I would like a copy of the tape for the Aron Ralston story, interview by Tom Brokaw. I was not able to tape the program this week and would like to have my kids who live in Europe view it. I realize he has a book out but I would like a tape as well.

Thank you

Posted by Phyllis Marks
May 19, 2005 02:00 AM

I just saw the last few minutes of the show on TLC. Do you have a copy of that or the Dateline show?

I would be gald to pay and send you a blank tape if needed.

Thank you

Posted by Peter Fowler
May 22, 2005 10:14 PM

Unbelievable story - I was so impressed with Aron - I had to tape this special that was on The learning channel for my son and daughter (26 and 28). I emailed information to my son who is in Germany going to school and who is very much like Aron on outdoor activities. My son (26) climbed the Zugspitze in Germany, snowboards, mountain bikes, ski's. Aron impressed me with his strategies, his strength and his courage. God bless him. He is a great example on survival and my son is very impressed. Even his parents impressed me.

Posted by
May 24, 2005 12:54 PM

If there is any way that I could persuade you to provide me with a cipoy of Tom Brokaw's The Aron Ralston Story, I would. I am prepared to pay you. Please let me know.
Thanks lots!

Posted by Shayna
May 24, 2005 03:52 PM

I am interested in getting a copy of the Aron Rolston story "Trapped in a Canyon"
It was a very moving story of an amazing young man.
I want to show the story to my church community group.
How can I get a copy?

Posted by Anne
May 24, 2005 11:45 PM

Yet another request for a copy!
Thank you.

Posted by sherrin
May 31, 2005 03:02 AM

I am also interested in getting a copy of the TLC program. I even wrote to TLC, and they do not plan to sell copies and do not plan on showing the program again,

A copy would be fantastic,

Thanks!

Posted by Jinell
June 12, 2005 01:02 AM

Such a inspiration ! I am also interested in getting a copy of the TLC program for my children to watch. Would buy it!
Thank you to anyone that could help.

Posted by Val
June 12, 2005 05:46 PM

I just saw the most recent air of the Dateline: Desperate Days in Blue John Canyon. I am so incredibly inspired. I need a copy of the video! I would love to buy one off of someone who is willing. Please, I really want a copy!

Posted by Sonya
July 2, 2005 01:29 AM

SORRY TO BOTHER.WOULD PAY ALMOST ANYTHING FOR A COPY,MY BROTHER FACED A SIMILAR ISSUE AND DIDNT GET TO SEE THE SHOW.HE CRIED WHEN HE HEARD AND EVEN THOUGH HE WAS RESCUED PRIOR TO THE ACT,HE STILL IS HAUNTED BY THE THOUGHT.THIS MEANS ALOT TO ME AND I WOULD PAY FOR JUST A RESPONSE FROM YOU.IT HAS BEEN MY MISSION FOR ALMOST 2 MONTHS NOW TO GET A COPY OF EITHER SHOW.I FEEL A SENSE OF GUILT HAVING SEEN THE SHOW AND BEEN SO INSPIRED AND SOMEONE LIKE MY BROTHER WHO ACTUALLY LOST HIS HAND(HOSPITAL-SURGERY)WAS NEVER BLESSED WITH SEEING IT.ARON RALSTON IS A SAVIOR AND INSPIRATION TO US ALL AND COULD MAKE SOME MILLIONS ON VIDEOS ALONE.SORRY SO LONG,TY FOR YOUR TIME.

Posted by RON
July 17, 2005 02:23 AM

One more request for a copy of the Dateline special. I'm teaching a college compositioni course and it would be a great addition.

Posted by Judy
July 19, 2005 02:25 PM

to RON of July 17. I was interested in the particulars of your brother's accident. And I was going to send you a note, but your name doesn't re-direct to an email address!

Please send me an note if you see this.

Posted by Kal
July 24, 2005 11:10 PM

Hi,

Any chance of my getting a copy to view and show my kids? 'Will reimburse costs.

Thanks for your trouble to reply yea or nea.

Posted by john
August 2, 2005 11:24 PM

I've been trying to buy a copy but no luck. PLEASE contact me with details if you're willing to make a copy for me. Thanks SO MUCH, Maggie

Posted by maggie
August 8, 2005 11:00 AM

My husband and I were so inspsired by this program and would definitely like to buy a copy of this tape. Please contact me and let me know if this is possible. Thanks so much.

Posted by Judy McIntire
August 9, 2005 05:32 PM

I'm another teacher who would like to use the video in my classroom. Please let me know if you have copies available for purchase.

Posted by Kathy
August 17, 2005 02:48 PM

Hello Cary,

Would love to purchase a copy of your Dateline video of Aaron Ralston. I have the book and have read it several times. What a great story.

Pat Arnold

Posted by Pat Arnold
August 25, 2005 11:34 PM

I was amazed by the story and very interested in purchasing a tape of it...would you please let me know if you'll be making & selling copies.

Posted by Patty
September 12, 2005 01:59 PM

I would also like a copy of the video. Let me know. Thanks

Posted by Steven
September 12, 2005 03:29 PM

If anyone was successful in obtaining a tape of The Aaron Ralston story/ Desperate days in Blue John canyon ,Please let me know as I too am interested in getting a copy.Thanks

Posted by Azeem
September 15, 2005 12:36 AM

I just watched the Dateline coverage of the Aron Rolston story for a class I'm taking at my high school and would love to contact Aron in any way possible. I realize he's unbelievably busy and may not have time to listen to me, but is there any way to contact him? Please e-mail me. Thanks.

Posted by Alex
September 28, 2005 04:17 PM

At my school we also are serarching for a copy of the video to use in our 8th Grade Survival Unit. Please let me know the arrangements that need to be made.

Posted by Johnna
October 7, 2005 11:58 AM

I would love a copy of the tape. One of the most inspirational stories I have ever seen. Please email me so I can purchase a copy. Thank you so much.

Posted by Don
October 14, 2005 05:04 PM

The book is a fantastic read, I could not put it down. It was the first book I have finished for years. I would love a copy of video, only too happy to pay any costs. Look forward to contact, like so many others.

Posted by shane
October 27, 2005 04:32 AM

Hi! I couldn't tell from the above thread if you were actually selling copies of the Aron Ralston Dateline interview. I would also love a copy if you are. Please let me know. Thanks

Posted by Linda
November 6, 2005 10:18 PM

Pirates stop stealing things

Posted by bob the cop
November 21, 2005 12:03 PM

I was wondering, along with the dozens of other hopefuls, if I could also get a copy of the tape for a small fee, of course. I missed the first half of the special when it aired last year on dateline, and i only have the words from Aron's book "Between a Rock and a Hard Place" in my memory. I would love to see this place on the tape. Please email me when you can! Thanks!!!

Posted by Laura Bianchi
January 10, 2006 11:20 AM

I would love to procure a copy as well. Are you interested in sharing?? I can send you a tape and SASE at your convenience... just let me know! His story means so much to me. Thanks :)

Posted by S.Keister
February 16, 2006 12:22 AM

I see that many people have requested a copy of the AAron Ralston video from Dateline. Do you know where I can get a copy of the video??

Posted by Erin
February 21, 2006 09:03 AM

Carey: I just finished listening to "Between a Rock and a Hard Place" on CD, read by Aron Ralston himself. Very harrowing and absolutely awe inspiring at the same time. I know this is a litte late in the game, but did you make copies of the Dateline tape for the others who posted a request? I called NBC but had to luck there. Please let me know if a copy still might be available and what the cost might be? Thanks !

Posted by Elizabeth Barber
March 29, 2006 05:56 PM

Also looking for a copy of the Dateline documentary on Aron Ralston. Can I get one?

Posted by Carolyn
May 13, 2006 04:06 PM

I found it on cdconnection.com for $9.06!

Posted by Carolyn
May 13, 2006 04:17 PM

I have a DVD copy I recorded straight off the original TV showing of the Tom Brokaw Trapped in a Canyon special. It is TV quality. I would be happy to "share" it only for cost of disc/case/mailing, but does anyone know if that is even allowed (legal) by the network. If someone can assure me they will not come after me, I will do my best to send copies to all who would request one (1 ea please).

Posted by Wayne
May 18, 2006 01:42 AM

Oops, my browser did not show the post, by Carolyn for the commercial DVD, which is now available at http://www.cdconnection.com/bin/nph-search?part=100407&s=0
when I posted my first.

Posted by Wayne
May 18, 2006 01:55 AM

I just saw a rebroadcast of the Brokaw documentary, Desperate Days". Were you able to provide copies to people. Can I get one?

With so much demand, do you know why MSNBC didn't sell copies itself?

Thanks, Roger Sattler

Posted by Roger Sattler
February 15, 2007 11:42 AM

I want a copy of the dateline story. I am and have been beyond words at the incredible story. I am so facinated with the human condition and what we are capable of doing under different circumstances.

Posted by delois siuda
September 3, 2007 03:08 AM

Since this seems to be the place to get a copy...is it possible? I teach high school where apathy sometimes needs a kick into the extraordinary.
Thanks

Posted by Deborah Macauley
October 12, 2007 07:55 PM

I am teaching a first aid course and I would like to use it in my class. Is there any way I could get a copy?
Thanks

Posted by Amy Campbell
October 16, 2007 02:31 PM

I am also teaching a survival skills unit to middle school. There is no better story than Aron's. I would love an oppertunity to purchace a copy!
Thanks

Posted by Joe
October 18, 2007 06:41 PM

i just finished aron's book and im looking for tapes of both shows. Please please let me know how I can get a hold of them. ~robin

Posted by Robin Giordano
January 16, 2008 04:51 PM

i just finished aron's book and im looking for tapes of both shows. Please please let me know how I can get a hold of them. ~robin

Posted by Robin Giordano
January 16, 2008 04:53 PM

Hi webmaster! Big thanks for this mega informative website!

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