DiscoverThe CRUX: True Survival StoriesWhat Happened to Gerry Largay – Disaster Strikes| E189
What Happened to Gerry Largay – Disaster Strikes| E189

What Happened to Gerry Largay – Disaster Strikes| E189

Update: 2025-10-23
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Welcome back to Disaster Strikes! In this episode of The Crux podcast's biweekly segment, Disaster Strikes, hosts Julie Henningsen and Kaycee McIntosh delve into the heartbreaking tale of 66-year-old Geraldine Largay, a retired Air Force nurse, who tragically lost her life on the Appalachian Trail in 2013. Despite Jerry's extensive hiking experience, her poor sense of direction led to her getting lost just two miles off the trail. The ensuing search operation became one of the largest in Maine's history. Gerry survived alone for 26 days, documenting her struggle in a journal. Her final entries became poignant messages to her family. Gerry's story has since prompted improved safety and navigation education within the hiking community. This episode examines how her ordeal underscores the thin line between adventure and tragedy while highlighting the importance of preparedness and the enduring power of love.


00:00 Introduction to Disaster Strikes

01:02 The Story of Geraldine Largay Begins


02:19 Jerry's Journey on the Appalachian Trail


04:13 The Tragic Turn


11:58 The Search Efforts


14:02 Jerry's Final Days


20:13 Lessons Learned and Legacy


28:15 Conclusion and Final Thoughts


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What Happened to Gerry Largay – Disaster Strikes| E189

What Happened to Gerry Largay – Disaster Strikes| E189

Bleav + Kaycee McIntosh + Julie Henningsen