Skier’s Feet Removed After Ordeal in Cascades
An extreme skier who survived five days lost in the Cascade Mountains last month underwent surgery that removed his feet and lower legs. Parts of his feet, including the toes, already had been lost.
Dan Witkowski’s ordeal began New Year’s Eve when, skiing solo, he plunged down an out-of-bounds chute at Alpental Ski Area, about 40 miles east of Seattle. Trying to return, he headed deeper into the backcountry.
By the fifth day, Jan. 4, Witkowski had lost 20 pounds and his temperature had dropped to 89 degrees. Rescuers in a helicopter finally spotted him.
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