**Photographer Survives Harrowing Cliff Fall in Madeira**
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A California-based photographer had a miraculous escape after tumbling nearly 200 feet from a cliff during a hiking expedition on the Portuguese island of Madeira. Kyle Quin Schrock, who shares his travel adventures on Instagram under the handle @everchanginghorizon, recounted the terrifying incident in a heartfelt video from his hospital bed.
Schrock, who boasts over one million followers on his Instagram account, posted the video on October 17. In the footage, he revealed that the fall occurred a week earlier while hiking in Madeira. He described the chilling experience, stating, “I fell from a cliff in Madeira,” as he lay bruised and attached to oxygen support. Unsurprisingly shaken, he disclosed that he fell from a height of around 197 feet.
The photographer expressed disbelief at his survival, noting that a small tuft of grass prevented him from falling even farther down the cliff. “I thought it was my death,” he said, reflecting on the moment. “I was caught on a piece of grass — like a little bush. It did not feel strong enough for me to get caught on. I was very surprised.”
As Schrock clung precariously to the vegetation, he heard a reassuring voice from above. A man reached out to him, informing him that a rescue helicopter was en route to assist. “That was the best news I could ever get,” he exclaimed. However, waiting for help presented its own challenges, as he had to maintain his grip on the feeble plant, which he felt might not hold him for long.
“Just having to last it out and try not to fall off that cliff felt like a really precarious situation,” he noted in the video. After what must have felt like an eternity, rescue personnel arrived and successfully extracted him from the cliff face, transporting him to a nearby hospital.
Following the incident, Schrock learned he had sustained multiple serious injuries, including fractures in his back, sternum, and several ribs. Despite the intense pain he was experiencing at that moment, he expressed profound gratitude for his life. “I’m extremely grateful to be alive,” he shared, conveying a sense of relief as he anticipated the possibility of recovery.
His journey to rehabilitation will be long and arduous. Schrock’s sister-in-law, Tara, has launched a verified GoFundMe campaign to support him during this challenging period. In her campaign description, she highlighted the extensive medical expenses he faces due to his injuries, including necessary spinal surgery. “He has a long road to recovery with travel assistance, rehabilitation, and further medical needs in the USA,” she wrote.
The GoFundMe page aims to alleviate some financial stress as he recuperates, noting that he will be unable to work for several months. “We’re hoping to ease some of that stress in any way possible with some financial support. Any little bit helps,” Tara added, calling for contributions from family and supporters.
Schrock, who has been travelling and ‘couch hopping’ since 2013, has always embraced the spirit of adventure. However, this incident has caused him to reflect deeply on the fragility of life. As his followers have rallied around him, their support showcases the power of community during difficult times.
As Schrock begins the recovery process, he remains determined to get back on his feet and embrace life once more. His experience serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictability of nature and the importance of safety while exploring its many wonders.