I Survived Being Mauled By a Bear

This isn't just a story of surviving an attack from a bear that should have left him dead... it's a story about the road after. It's about the perseverance that persists beyond the event itself and into the rest of a life.
"I knew right away that I was going to fight for life. I don't know if I can survive, but if I do, I have no idea what kind of shape I'm going to be in, what kind of challenges there will be or pain to endure... I realized right then and there, the worst possible outcome would be the possibility that I would look back at some point in my future and regret that choice to live. I basically made a deal with myself that I would never allow myself to ever look back and question that decision. From that point forward, my life was going to be about one small step forward at a time."
Check out our friends at Fieldcraft Survival who are the subject matter experts on all-things survival: fieldcraftsurvival.com/
Keep an eye out for more Stories of Survival!
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[@BlackRifleCoffeeCompany]

What’s the wildest survival story you’ve ever heard?

[@maviskilpatrick7592]

Not really a story but I’ve read about mountain men who were only afraid of grizzly bears when they were in aspen and brush thickets. Terrain a person couldn’t hardly crawl through a bear could run through at 35mph and slap your head off your shoulders like they were playing t ball.

[@assassinsjoker]

Seth Rogen did an episode on his podcast, where he talked to a family friend who survived a bear attack also. His was back in 2019!

[@davidbuben3262]

Well, this one for sure. But like Mavis said, the mountain men. That story about Hugh Glass is true. I read about him when I was a teen back in the 70s. Now famous because of the movie The Revenant.

[@storytimedavidcollins2897]

First Story When I was about four or five years old so early 1970’s I herd of a girl in her early 20’s that was a professional model doing a photo shoot up in Alaska out in the open on the ice when a polar bear came up over a like burm that was in the ice where it had pushed up from two like flat ice burgs had come together. She was mailed by the polar bear and ripped off both of her arms just below the shoulder. It was so cold that the blood was stopped by what was left of her arms freezing closed. She walked away from the seine of the attack with both her camera man/ boyfriend and the guide being killed by the bear. She walked several miles and got help and lived to tell the tail of a new and was one of the very first people to get prosodic arms. I heard about her story on the news at the time early 1970’s.

[@storytimedavidcollins2897]

Story two My Grandfather on my mom’s side was in WWI, Russel Rogers. Around the mid 1970’s he had survived to hart attacks that I knew of. He was missing a small folding two blade pocket knife

[@ZungaGal]

You are an amazing man. I am a quadriplegic from a drunk driver hitting me at 180 mph. I just learned to feed myself and to drive my own wheelchair. And for 14 years have done nothing. What a fool I have been. Your embracing your best life and I am in awe of you. Thank you for opening my eyes. Lisa

[@k1j2f30]

Good luck Lisa, you sound like a true survivor and....an absolute marvel yourself!!

[@krisrose219]

Lisa I think I would be like you were I in your shoes. I hope and pray you find some joy. Much love

[@brettbarton1911]

Your a badass

[@joanhenschel3511]

I'm with you all the way, Honey. I've been moping for the past couple of years, and this video has wacked me upside the head - woken me up to the reality that there is still a whole pile of good in this world. All the best for your endeavors xxx

[@susieturk1]

You my friend are amazing💛

[@zaheershah7119]

"The bigger my life gets, the smaller my disability gets." What a remarkably well lived life.

[@timwolf5742]

Wonderful words!

[@jamals5985]

Props to Amber for sticking around and being a keeper

[@vice7965]

This women deserve oscarZ

[@benjaminjones4008]

Just shows you women aren’t as bad as we seem

[@dylonpress7034]

She's a damn good woman for sure

[@QuadraAce]

Good luck finding one of those today. Women 30 yrs ago were great, we're complaining about the modern ones tho.

[@omiethamsia9009]

@@QuadraAce go cry some more

[@RS54321]

"We will all have moments that bring us to our knees." This man's depth of character, wisdom, and insight are tremendously encouraging.

[@GodLovesYou1624]

Props to the guys who followed the dog. That’s true insight

[@jiggyjay682]

AN IQ of 70 could have figured that out.

[@davealaya]

Also the dog is top tier good boy.

[@chriz9959]

props to the dog. what a hero!

[@red-demigod]

​@@davealayashe a girl dog

[@SsMesh480]

Unmmm! Maybe just some 😅bear spray! 😮

[@hiperson5986]

Just shows how loyal dogs really are. He wouldn't be alive if it wasn't for his dog not willing to let his best friend die.

[@annehedonia156]

I know! That was incredible that his dog went back to those fishermen to get help in dog language! Really powerful story.

[@huwhitecavebeast1972]

Dogs are better than people, hands down (or paws down, idk).

[@TheLoverOfYourMother1]

Beautiful animals, humans really are lucky to have such great companions.

[@ratillecebrasquedubitantiu4451]

That's what we want in a best friend of any species. We would do the same for them.

[@steveadams7940]

I love dogs my family hates dogs want me yo get rid of my dog because my family is evil a dogs love is loyal and i have never met a human more loving and loyal than a dog truly a beloved best friend they are

[@nangel270]

Everything about this story is remarkable. The man, the dog, the fishermen responding to the dog, …just WOW.

[@chefgoldblum1450]

Sadly the dog is probably what provoked the attack. Never hike with a dog in bear country.

[@thenellierose]

@@chefgoldblum1450 Or maybe it was them unknowingly getting between the sow and her cubs, as he said.

[@robertagarvey9044]

I'm SO glad you made it, buddy! I worked on you for hours at Prov when they first brought you in to the ER that night. Bravo!

[@stevenghee654]

Bless you

[@kathybradbury]

Amazing what is possible with God.

[@staygold2563]

Liar

[@robertagarvey9044]

And who are you to call me a liar@@staygold2563 ?? I’m a surgical tech at Providence (retired now) and I was on call that night. That particular night changed my perception of “cute, cuddly “ bears forever. The damage inflicted by an angry bear will cause angst in all medical professionals, no matter how long you have been in the field.

[@therainman7777]

@@staygold2563Must be weird being such a rotten person.

[@rillettesdumains2425]

I cried when he said what Maya the dog did for him. Dogs are amazing beings.

[@mzmartin8115]

I cried too. 22 years up there these stories really get to me

[@FraBra88]

They truly are. They deserve all the love.

[@Hearth123]

When I was 15, I encountered a bear on a private hiking trail my aunt owned. I had my just dog with me. She was a great Pyrenees Kelpie cross. I was frozen as that bear stared at me then started to stand up. My dog lunged at it and bit it in the face and I turned and ran. I ran faster than I ever had and I got my dad and a weapon, we went back for her and she trotted out of the woods completely uninjured and with a big grin on her face. I don't know what happened between her and that bear, but I assume she startled it so much that it ran off. She lived a long life, she was a wonderful dog and I often wonder what would have happened if I hadn't had her with me that day.

[@rebeccaglover]

I was in third grade when this happened, about an hour and half from where I grew up. Awesome to see how you didn’t let the bear win and you went on to live a fulfilling life!

[@BlackRifleCoffeeCompany]

An amazing, inspiring, and heroic story to be told and retold.

[@emmanuelawosusi2365]

@@BlackRifleCoffeeCompany do a law enforcement video

[@afoster1621]

"Win". I think this guys recovery and story is amazing but I think its important to remember this was just a wild bear trying to defend its offspring. That is all

[@emmanuelawosusi2365]

@@afoster1621 true

[@boneculinator]

@@afoster1621 no, that is not all. that is insignificant to this guys recovery

[@UnfazedPhoenix]

There's really no words to express how strong he is. I'm just a stranger on the internet but this hit me right in the heart. What an amazing man.

[@daleneedham9064]

U ain't lying!!!

[@ReviewedByAndy]

“The more I engage in life, the bigger it gets.” Incredible perspective. Gotta remember to go out there and LIVE.

[@kaymarham5486]

This guy is so very eloquent - a natural story teller.

[@WvlfDarkfire]

PTSD doesn't just affect veterans. It affects all of us whom have had the unfortunate opportunity to fight for our lives. The fact that he survived makes him a badass. The fact that he has the spirit to speak about it makes him a hero in my book. What an American!

[@ginb981]

Beautiful ❤️

[@philj8205]

PTSD can be brought upon by almost anything that is difficult. It all depends on the psychological profile of the victim. The only reason veterans are brought up so much is because very few people are capable of walking away from active combat without PTSD symptoms. I developed PTSD simply from spending two weeks in an American jail.

[@justinward-angelucci7207]

PTSD is a label that is given out too easily now. There are different types and categories of it. Lumping veteran and PTSD goes hand and hand now. Why? Bc claim it when it isn't true and puts a terrible light on it. I'm a combat vet and have been treated for it but its a constant battle.

[@benjomama1]

Americas home of the badass.

[@janebailey8032]

@@justinward-angelucci7207 I totally agree re: the PTSD label. I was in NYC on 9/11. At the time I had a new boyfriend who was NYPD and he called just as I was walking out the door headed straight for downtown and told me to stay home. Years later, while at the Dr. for insomnia, she diagnosed me with PTSD after answering a just a few questions. She then prescribed me some seriously strong meds I ended up throwing out. I told my Dr. she was wrong and I was sure I didn't have PTSD but she wouldn't hear it.

[@marcelmarshall4240]

The mental and physical strength of this man is beyond anything imaginable. May the rest of his life be bliss.

[@TrentGustus]

This story makes all of our problems seem smaller. Courageous

[@baileyongonzalaz]

Flying out to meet a stranger just to inspire him with some hope and let him know that he's not alone was such solid thing to do by Lee. Sounds like an amazing man in his own right. 👍

[@bigpapisaunds]

Yeah that dudes action can’t be understated, Dan always had it within him, but he needed that initial spark of confidence and courage to demand of life what he wanted

[@tombryant9878]

Totally amazing!

[@lynngrace4174]

He’s a beautiful soul ❤

[@AutisticBearLover]

It made me cry tbh, it was so sweet.

[@redneckjohn82]

Dude is a warrior.

[@BlackRifleCoffeeCompany]

He sure is.

[@HalferLandPerformance]

100%...

[@carlaperry1312]

Indeed 👍🏽🥰

[@traceyboutilier6713]

So True!!! Gawd, what a scary unbelievable thing to happen!!! I am petrified of finding myself in the same situation visiting the forests……….God was on his side that day.

[@lizardstillruntheworldliza4883]

Absolutely ! Makes me look like a pussy ,with my problems !

[@Bangscrew41]

I haven’t cried like that in a while. You’ve been through hell and back and still cane out on top. God bless you

[@daybyday0731]

God was certainly with him. Thank the God

[@cw4608]

This is the most articulate and vivid bear attack story I have ever heard. Yes as said by another commenter, you sir are a warrior.

[@k1j2f30]

And horrifying, too!

[@egyptcat4301]

What a man, and kudos to Amber for being true to her heart! These two are unstoppable! 💙💙💙

[@thiefonthecross7552]

So awesome

[@donfabius2057]

"The bigger my life gets the smaller my disability gets". -You are an inspiration sir.

[@az-yq3rk]

Dan Bigley, "The more I engaged in life, the bigger my life gets. The bigger my life gets, the smaller my disability gets."

[@shawnahitt1047]

He is a walking miracle. I love his positive outlook on life after going through this horrific injury.

[@relax2dream164]

What a survival story! From the dog running for help to fighting back to marriage to a family. Just wow!❤️

[@joshmccarty8586]

I teared up a bit when he's telling the part where he saw his mother and chose to fight to stay alive. It's wild that he survived..

[@RS54321]

I teared up too. It's truly a miracle he survived that. Shows how strong the human spirit is.

[@sheldongreene8366]

@@RS54321The indomitable human spirit is one of the greatest treasures we humans innately possess.

[@kingmajin]

me too. my first thought? that even through all the chaos...when a mother's love is shown; there's nothing that can't be done, even if it's just the image of the loving mother in your own brain.

[@AutisticBearLover]

Me too I actually cried😭

[@justjudy7320]

A friend of mine was one of the first hikers / fisherman to Aid this beloved man. I often wondered what happened to him and actually Googled him a few years after the attack. No doubt my friend and those others around have memories that they'll not soon forget. Hugs and admiration

[@tomschumacher5434]

Thank you for sharing this amazing story! I have been stationed at Alaska for five years now and we have a saying in my squadron, “Alaska will kill you”. I have to remind myself not to get complacent while enjoying what Alaska has to offer. Living here is its own kinda beast, between the fluctuation of day light hours, the wildlife, and just its own economical challenges. This was very inspirational and a reminder.

[@calebstephenson200]

Yeah.."Alaska will kill you" if you haven't been ... go.. visit... enjoy... but be careful mother nature will fuck you up...

[@AKsusan907]

Well said..absolutely true!

[@VanessaJean87]

My little brother is on his way up there right now. If you run into SSG Apfel, tell him I said hey. 😂

[@AndrewPorter10]

I was stationed at JBER and used to go to the Russian River all the time. There are bears everywhere. I am glad he fought back and is alive.

[@BlackRifleCoffeeCompany]

We are too. This was ultimately the truest example of what it means to have a determined, warrior spirit.

[@mzmartin8115]

You never forget these stories

[@coletteroyer5353]

This story is horrifying. I can’t believe he survived. Truly one of the strongest people alive.

[@pnwadventurer9674]

He’s blind…. Has a heart of gold and isn’t afraid to be super compassionate in explaining his mind, this is an amazing man and a rarity! Love it when people surprise us like this! I think we all need to be a lil blind at times to really waken up again and be in real touch with our thoughts and Senses

[@johnsullivan1713]

I was living in Cooper Landing that summer and I will never forget hearing about this incident! His resilience and spirit are truly inspiring!

[@TheBackroadskid]

That was intense and wildly inspiring, knowing how he fought!

[@BlackRifleCoffeeCompany]

We are glad he came out of this attack with his life. Wildly inspiring, indeed.

[@officerderekchauvin3306]

@@BlackRifleCoffeeCompany Kyle Rittenhouse is NOT guilty, Evan Hafer is a beta male. Cope

[@emmanuelawosusi2365]

@@BlackRifleCoffeeCompany wildland firefighting stories please

[@cindikachnic2068]

You are such an inspiration to everyone, especially to us with disabilities. You are amazing, Your beautiful dog was amazing in your rescue, and Amber…. How I wish there were more women like you in this world. You did not turn away, you did not run away. You completely opened your heart to someone you knew was a good man despite any struggles that you two must of faced…. And you faced them together. It is absolutely horrible what happened and at the same time this is one of the most uplifting and beautiful stories I have ever heard. Thank you for sharing it with everyone. ❤

[@Only1forme75]

I need my very own Amber type. I can't get even my own son's mom to commit and can't get a date going on 4 yrs. I'm physically healthy but can't get a date when all I want is a loving, loyal committed woman just like this incredible man found with Amber. I'm not getting any younger either so time is wastin away.

[@acco5038]

@@Only1forme75 did u find a girl yet ?

[@Kyler_ford_808]

This brought more emotion that I thought was possible hearing your story. Truly amazing man with an amazing story!

[@bigredone9917]

This man has balls of steel. Great story.

[@phanorkner]

I know of at least one more in your tribe. Dr. Barrie Gilbert, one of my wildlife professors at Utah State University, survived a bear attack, but it took the left half of his face. He went on to become an incredible advocate for bears and bear research.

[@hellekimery9537]

The people who hate/ fear bears are rarely the ones who have gone through a near death experience at the hands of a bear. They are incredible and have spoken up about their understanding of bears just doing what nature taught them to do. It’s the same as blaming a shark for being a shark if you are bitten in the ocean. Yet we ( those in charge) feel that such an animal must be hunted down and killed! Why? We are in their home, visiting , that’s a risk we assume if we want to be in the wild!

[@jamierupert7563]

@@hellekimery9537 it makes me sick that they hunt down and kill these animals that "attack" when WE are in THEIR home. If we (us in the US at least) see or here someone in our home we try to kill or get rid of whatever is invading our home, why would we think another animal would do any different protecting their family and home?

[@hellekimery9537]

@@jamierupert7563 well exactly how I feel. That’s why I don’t buy the “ bear must be killed because after mauling a human, in its territory, it now has a taste for humans as prey”! BS, it’s us humans wanting our pound of flesh, we MUST win, we must be in charge, we must be top predators , even though we think it’s completly ok to hunt and kill any animals we like, and invade the little natural habitat they have left! It makes me sick! We used to do the same thing to whales, then we realized many were becoming extinct so now we have rules, rules that only certain countries follow ! Then it was sharks, ( still is), because if we want to swim and surf in their home, a human may be hurt or killed, so the idea was to kill as many sharks as possible! Then ooops, we suddenly realized that sharks are very very important for the oceans balance, so now we try to learn, a little late,because they are still killed by the thousands for their fins, so some rich Asian can have his soul. In the US and Canada bears used to be plentiful, the native people lived for hundreds of years in balance with bears and other predators, till the the “ white man” decided they needed to kill as many bears as possible! It’s history repeating itself over and over and over again and it drives me nuts! You are Absolutly right, we’d never put up with someone threatening our home, family, or children, but bears behave like bears? Well let’s kill them for that, because we ( humans) feel we have a right to do whatever we want, when we want, and when it goes wrong - we’ll we just kill the animal’s that are just defending what’s theirs….it’s heartbreaking because, that’s just not the solution to the problem! If hunters and hikers insist on going deep into bear country, they should accept the risks involved!

[@thejdogcool]

@@jamierupert7563 Man is a part of nature too. It is our home as much as it is any animals'. Moreover, the concept of land rights doesn't apply to animals anyway. You're just being sentimental.

[@crowjones78]

@@jamierupert7563 you’re a goof… we have as much right to be there as them. When are you donating your house?

[@Groaznic]

Sir, your lady is a pure unit made out of the highest grade unobtanium. 10/10 to her no joke for coming back.

[@c.mccarthy]

The way he describes the crossroads at 7:50 is exactly how my grandad described his near death experience when a huge metal beam was dropped from a crane onto his head- crushing his skull. He described it as he had to choose at the crossroads to stay living and suffer the pain or to die and experience numbness. He recalls being able to recognise the surgeons faces who worked on reconstructing his skull while he was unconscious as he said he felt himself leave his body and fight to get back inside it. Extremely interesting what the mind can do when under such trauma.

[@charlottekey8856]

So often people in near death experiences fight to keep from going back in the body. It's better in the non-physical realm. But some people have things to still do here.

[@jeffreya8329]

I went thru the same experience last night when i stubbed my toe

[@franjoikrloipatrik]

@@charlottekey8856 tupac died and came back to life 3 times before he was dead

[@jonathansage9063]

Most likely your grandfather was a liar

[@ba6561]

​@@jeffreya8329 hero 👊 ✊️

[@claudiasteinwald8952]

You are an amazing man and you will touch more hearts than you will ever know. When you said your victory lap was when you "got the girl and you got the king", I was crying. God bless you and your family and thank you for sharing!!

[@stuartj1234]

And doggo runs to find help.............truely mans best friend. Good for you Dan your a very strong guy..............also a pretty good singer dude. May your wonderful life continue to reward you.

[@Nevasleep83]

Those fisherman that took time to really notice the signs of the dog is incredible

[@sxmxxx]

You have my respect as a man. I am a father as well and I get overwhelmed sometimes from everything, you have no sight and still father two children with love and compassion. It's 7:39am and wasn't expecting to cry this early in the day.

[@oraprestegard2737]

Truly inspiring. The bigger life gets the smaller the disability gets. I love that line. So positive. Thank you for sharing. Glad you chose Life. A miracle for sure.

[@lesilmcguire4690]

Dan and Amber. Lesil here. I watch this a couple times a year to remind myself how strong the two of you are. You are both an absolute gift to Alaska and the world. Thank you for bravely sharing your story and deciding to live ❤ love always. Please consider sharing a link to your incredible book here and how people can buy it.

[@couz10]

That man is a beast himself for surviving this ordeal. Hope the remainder of his life is blessed with good stuff.

[@marshalllemasters7703]

So much respect for this man. Going through something so traumatic and life altering and not succumbing to it but genuinely growing and turning a negative into a beautiful life is not easy. He had to fight his fucking ass off and I respect the hell out of him for it

[@louwill9858]

Imva black man from the city of Detroit & I wouldn't wish this on any human being! You sir are the epitome of strength

[@cw4608]

Sir - Please be safe in Detroit. I went through 20 years ago and it was a bit unsettling to see so many barred windows and high security fences in residential areas. I was from Montana, Detroit was like nothing I had ever seen. You possess strength as well.

[@louwill9858]

@@cw4608 lmao yes Sir

[@solace4114]

What does being black and detriot have to do with anything? Lol i swear some black people need to chill.People who go into wilderness put their life on the line and if you dont come prepared for the boogeyman then its almost a suicide mission. Even if you got a gun your in enemy territory . I went hiking in newfoundland and was told it wasnt a long hike.. we were the only ones in the trail it was about 2 hours to a beach in woods and down a cliff and back up. We found a dead moose carcus and at that point i was worried and told myself never again hiking un prepped for attacks. Oh yah to add newfoundland have had polar bears due to ice bergs floating their .. they get trapped on the ice bergs . Its common…it was a beautiful hike but risky

[@nowirehangers2815]

In a white woman from Kansas Who CARES??

[@lilithowl]

​@@nowirehangers2815nobody does, when it's you

[@softshoedancer]

my mum passed last year. I can imagine her waving and smiling at me. I wonder whether if I had had that same experience, I'd have chosen to follow her to the next life

[@grinchoi1]

Dope ass story. I'm amazed by your dog as well. It truly was your best friend. And your wife Amber is really a keeper!

[@k9insomniac783]

I don’t know if I’m more impressed by the sheer determination this guy has to live and not be defined by the attack, or saddened because I truly don’t know that my will to achieve what he has if faced with what he went through would even come close. My hat is off to you sir.

[@bobnunyabiznz4917]

I know for a fact that I would have chosen to die. I don’t have near the passion or badassery that he does. He’s a special individual.

[@waynechappell3263]

My face is so wet from fallen tears as I ponder the same thing.Would I have what it takes to persevere? I pray that I would.This man and his story is so heartbreaking and inspiring…..I am so happy that he is enjoying his best life! GOD BLESS!!!!! 🤠🙏🦅☀️❤️

[@randallmorse1263]

Man, what a story! Fine example of fortitude and strength.

[@AutisticBearLover]

Sir, I wanna say you are amazing. I’m so happy you’re here to tell us this story. I myself am a *huge* lover of bears, and I love to hear survivor’s stories. I wish you well💗 This is one of the only few bear survivor stories that got me to cry, hearing you choosing to fight for life and seeing your mom just hit me in the heart😭

[@Wakk69]

My heart truly goes out to you. Your bravery is quite amazing. Glad you’re still with us.

[@michpratt1]

After hearing his description of the mauling and JUST the damage to his head, I cannot believe he survived this. Miracle. And he had amazing doctors and nurses! What an awesome survivor. I’m terrified of bears and the ocean.

[@justinjones5281]

Must be a multi millionaire. Dr strange money.

[@kristinrodgers7210]

You should be terrified. They are to be left alone yet dumb humans constantly go into their territory then are surprised when these things happen

[@J-Rod91]

7:55 WOAH THAT IS INSANE! Think about it......... He was attacked by a momma bear protecting her cubs! As he was laying there considering “giving up” a memory of HIS MOM gave him that necessary push to keep going! MOMS, human or animal, are actually not much different, in the areas that matter! Beautiful realization! 😁

[@tammyfoster6223]

That was deep

[@susanschroeder3512]

Gd 1 XO

[@jakenash8362]

Women are supernatural beings. Moms are the best. Make babies ladies, it's badass. My children are the best part of my life, and a woman gave that to me.

[@wildwildItaly]

This is really a shocking experience , my heart actually started racing watching this. How he got out of it alive is unbelievable. ❤

[@angelodomingo2818]

Ive taken alot for granted. I wish to say thank you to this man for truly living. People amaze me!

[@paschallhouston]

Wow what a story and happy he was able to move on after the attack. I need a Amber in my life! She stood by his side when things were bad, much respect to her!

[@Mattman2500]

These stories will never get old . Get them coming!!!

[@blackcurrantpop]

Truly amazing how he pulled through with his optimistic outlook and appreciation of life. Glad to hear you are living the best way each day.

[@justicewillprevail1106]

What a courageous man. He's accomplished more than many men who have sights. Very inspiring.

[@burkeballistics685]

You got me sitting here at the job all teary eyed. Wow.

[@anthonycobbs8000]

So grateful to have heard this story, life has been kicking my ass lately and this has shown me just how strong the human spirit can be. What I’m going through is baby food to this tragedy, if he can battle through this and have and find happiness anything is possible. God bless this man and his family.

[@bagramdave883]

Any thorny, I’m inspired that this story gives you strength. I want to convey something Monica Lewinsky said in a speech years ago..(likely a quote she heard rather than made up). She said “ You can drown in 10 feet of water or 3 inches of water…”. Comparing your struggle to ANYONE else is meaningless, but I understand what you meant by saying “baby food”, but want you to know pain is pain. Good luck as you heal yourself.

[@kaka3661able]

Stay strong and keep fighting brother

[@lisahughes3207]

OMG..I'm so sorry you went through that. Thanks for sharing your story, your strength is admirable. All the best 😀

[@brassbear4234]

Thank you Black Rifle. Each one of these videos reminds me to not waste a moment of this precious life.

[@nirvana613]

This man is a true inspiration. When he talked about the man that had suffered the same fate as him flying out to meet him and give him hope I couldn't help but draw parallels. When I was battling leukemia three years ago I had two people that I spoke to that had suffered the same illness. To hear them speak and show me that survival was possible was the strongest support I had in the entire process. Anytime I felt like my time was up I thought about them and how there's always a chance if you never give up. I don't rightfully know where I stand on religion and the existence of God but if there ever were angels on this earth it's those people. Bless you all for what you do and best of health to you and your families !

[@mello3214]

And I pray God richly blesses you too ! I’ve been there and done that too! Every time I was knocked to my knees , God is always been there to pick me up, even when I felt I nobody his spirit in me has made me stronger 🙏👍

[@nyarkasewe2363]

You are blessed! May you continue to live your best life😊

[@djy5645]

As a brit I would only walk around forests in America if I had a semi auto assault rifle/shot gun. Forget being in that position. Glad you've found peace with that horrible situation.

[@crystaliclake]

Well a lot of the great hiking is in national, state and provincial (Canadian) parks where you can’t bring guns but there is bear spray .

[@InsertHandleHere968]

I’m a Texan with nothing against guns but just FYI; bear spray has been proven to be more effective against bears than guns per research done by the US Fish and Wildlife Service

[@yourarseismine1016]

I’m British also, no need to kill the poor buggers. Just duelweild bear spray!

[@somni2246]

​​@@yourarseismine1016ok, have fun being mauled to death when it progresses to an actual attack, or an attack that is predatory in nature, and not simply a bluff charge-- which is the extent of the effectiveness of a bear spray, i.e. for *deterring* charges/bears getting too close, not a full-on attack. Though I'm assuming it's incredibly unlikely that you'll ever spend any significant amount of time in these regions for such a thing to become a statistical possibility: better to judge the people for whom such encounters-- with these dangerous and powerful animals-- are a routine part of their existence, from the comfort of your British Isles.

[@Stephaniepasqualino-de6qy]

Apparently you have difficulty reading, so let me repeat. This has been studied and tested. It’s not only safer for the bear to rely on bear spray, it is safer for YOU too. You are more likely to be mangled trying to shoot a bear than using bear spray. Those are the clear stats and it’s not even close. Unless your aim is perfect, a charging bear is likely to keep charging when shot. Bear spray WILL incapacitate a bear and buy you time to get the hell out of there.

[@ddraigmafon4725]

What an incredible account. This gentleman’s courage and fortitude are exemplary, truly someone to look up to. Also, kudos to the skill of the medical team that took care of him immediately after the attack and dealt with that devastating damage.

[@33sosa85]

Love the voice and the singing. Man expresses his heart

[@lukecramer536]

Ironic that he decided to keep fighting when he saw his mother and realized the bond between mother and child. That bear had the same thought.

[@enocquezado8550]

You are not only a great man with a great story. You are a true poet!

[@earthtochelsea_]

My god. What a harrowing account. But such a hopeful one at the same time. This man is so well spoken and an incredible story teller. Very inspiring. What a strong and resilient man. And Amber. What an absolute angel. ❤

[@ronyalemerrill]

Literally my worst nightmare. God bless him. I would have waved goodbye and left this rock quickly.

[@donnakearse2503]

Amazing story and so elequently told. Real hero this guy. Fight on.

[@fishingwcp]

Very inspirational guy, his voice is very calming. Amazing how good his face actually looks after recovery and so lucky to not have had brain damage as well…great story keep living man

[@followmyuniverse5155]

Teared up hearing your happy results of catching the fish and winning Amber's heart after all that you went through. The bear didn't take your life, and you have strength that pulls you through even what seems impossible.

[@leo-zl3iu]

Beautifully said

[@DJTheMetalheadMercenary]

That is one tough dude to survive and push through. Not to be cliche, but I knew he was gonna get the girl in the end :) stoked for him and his success turning his situation into a positive and inspiring one.

[@johnbell3122]

This man is the epitome of changing your sense of injury.

[@HereForLaughsAndLearns]

Little detail in the story but worth mentioning, shout out to man's best friend. Their instinct to protect us is unmatched.

[@Sparooga]

The dog's defensive aggression is probably what caused the bear to attack in the first place. The men didn't notice the bear.

[@ege5804]

@@Sparooga You do realize that the dog was the one who alerted the fisherman to follow him right? He is alive because he had a dog.

[@Semperidem94]

If the dog attacked the bear instead of running away both of those guys could have had time to run away and survive unscratched.

[@cheekibone117]

​@@Semperidem94yea what a useless dog. Everyone expects that their dog charges a grizzly, which dog doesn't? /s

[@Krisp138]

Lol that's the stupidest thing I ever heard. Blame the dog for not risking it's life even though the dog helped save him. Would you risk your life and attack that bear? Same thing. I am surprised the other guy didn't get attacked. Wonder if there's anything to the story that's missing though. Anyone know if it was a grizzly ? I know they tend to be more violent.

[@robertcolucci4137]

You’re amazing bro, I have a huge admiration for people that are still so positive after a traumatic experience like that, so much respect for you. The playing is awesome as well, you’ve got a Kurt Vile vibe to your music

[@Pingaheimer]

I've been following his story for years and i read his book, it's wonderful and highly recommended. Thanks for this great update.

[@tammyfoster6223]

What is the book?

[@Pingaheimer]

​@@tammyfoster6223 Beyond The Bear

[@Shine-wb6ll]

@@Pingaheimer but how did he managed to stop the attack ? Cause in the video, it doesn't tell you why did the bear left and didn't continue the attack ? Cause from the other accounts of bear attacks, usually bears would continue to maul you till you die and it'll consume you, sometimes would even bury you to consume later

[@N0PDialatedEye]

@@Shine-wb6ll the bear wasn’t attacking because it was hungry, it was protecting its cubs. Most of the time when bears kill and eat people, they are doing it for food

[@deadbod9306]

Pure badassery . Helps you put things in perspective .

[@serenawilliams6138]

This was an incredibly thoughtful story. He’s very inspiring and he’s got courage to spare!

[@halilahmed279]

What a warrior. Incredible story and thank you for sharing.

[@brendaatkins2450]

As he said that his dog went for help, this just made me feel so emotional, especially as he spoke about his mom, he has such a very beautiful, blessed n strong soul n will. I pray for God to be him n his family throughout their blessed lives.

[@briansullivan3603]

Excellent story of survival and true grit. Mad respect for this man.

[@lynlister2440]

You've probably heard this a million or more times. You're story is truly amazing. The horror you went through and will to survive not only the attack but all of the surgeries and rehabilitation is a true testament to be heard by everyone one of us. People who've suffered similar things to war injuries , car crashes, deaths of children and spouses to divorce. The old adage Where there's a will there's a way.You are living proof that it can be done.It just depends on how much you want it and what you're willing to do and give. I'm so glad that you came out the other side. Not the same it's true. Yet maybe stronger in a lot of ways. I'm also happy you got the girl and you're life went on.Thank you for sharing your story. I've just lost my husband and know I have an obligation to go on and never stop no matter what. You are an inspiration and I pray God walks with you every step of the way as you go forward.

[@debbieminks6175]

I love his story!!! So hard to have gone through a terrible experience like that but I love how he overcame it. So inspiring!

[@jesseolson9879]

I noticed his friend carries a gun now. I never wanted to wait for an attack to carry. When I hike or go fishing I'm armed and so are the 2 friends I always go with. I've had people actually give us a hard time about it. Well this won't happen to us its a slim chance but we like to keep it damn near impossible.

[@BravoNiner14126]

Perfect embodiment of having the will to live. God bless you sir. Your an inspiration

[@eliaspergande2663]

Good on you man. You have an incredible story and are an even more incredible person. I cannot imagine what that’s like or how you found the strength to overcome but you have inspired me. Thank you

[@seanpenfold4374]

What an incredible story, feel like that really touched me. And he has a really great voice.

[@rfpnc]

Thank you, Dan Bigley, for sharing your story and your journey. I know it sounds trite, but you are an inspiration. Thank you, BRCC.

[@thetrueamericanindian2885]

Wow this guy is a true soldier and inspiration!!Amber is a hell of a lady too.You know the man that came to visit him is a hero and a remarkable human being,he must of thought of his own feelings at the moment he was attacked and said I have to go talk this guy.This story gave me something to hold on to because I have had tremendous loss too and now I know it's going to be okay and I can successfully move on without bitterness.

[@wendyladybug355laurie4]

I Am Praying For You & GOD Is Wrapping His Arm's Around You Right Now.I Pray For Our Heavenly Father To Shower You With His Blessings'!!!! Many PRayersNLuv 👼👼✝️✝️❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥🙏🙏🕊️🕊️🌹🌹💝💝🌌🌠

[@mustbemeech]

I want to say thank you for sharing this story although you probably won’t see this but It means a lot. I hope you’re doing well, genuinely 🙏🏼

[@brokens1097]

Your story holds an incredibly shocking level of inspiration. Utmost respect.

[@jeffallen1342]

Dang... why you got to go and make my eyes tear up for? Now I got to go back to work after my lunch hour all red eyed. Totally worth it though. Thank you. This story will be on my mind for some time.

[@BlackRifleCoffeeCompany]

It is definitely one you won't soon forget.

[@GL-no9bb]

Oh my goodness, what an inspiration you are, you have absolutely made more out of your life than a lot of people that have never been through a trauma like you have! What an awesome outlook you have on life. You are truly living your best life and have inspired many other people! Thank you for sharing your story!