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34 Facts About Nando Parrado

Glynda Rossetti

Written by Glynda Rossetti

Modified & Updated: 19 Sep 2024

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Source: The-sun.com

Nando Parrado is a name that resonates with survival, resilience, and sheer willpower. Known for surviving the infamous 1972 Andes plane crash, Parrado's story is nothing short of extraordinary. But who is Nando Parrado beyond that harrowing experience? What makes his journey so compelling? This blog post dives into 34 fascinating facts about Nando Parrado, shedding light on his life before, during, and after the crash. From his early years in Uruguay to his incredible trek through the Andes, and his achievements as an author and motivational speaker, you'll discover the many layers of this remarkable individual. Buckle up for an inspiring ride through the life of a true survivor.

Key Takeaways:

  • Nando Parrado's harrowing survival story in the Andes Mountains showcases the power of resilience and the human spirit, inspiring countless individuals to overcome adversity and never give up.
  • Nando Parrado's life after the Andes crash is marked by resilience, determination, and a commitment to sharing his story of survival, serving as a beacon of hope and inspiration for people worldwide.
Table of Contents
01Early Life and Background
02The Andes Plane Crash
03Survival in the Andes
04Rescue and Aftermath
05Life After the Andes
06Legacy and Impact
07Personal Interests and Hobbies
08Nando Parrado's Legacy

Early Life and Background

Nando Parrado, a name synonymous with survival and resilience, has a fascinating life story. Let's explore some key facts about his early years and background.

  1. Born on December 9, 1949, in Montevideo, Uruguay, Nando Parrado grew up in a close-knit family.
  2. His full name is Fernando Seler Parrado Dolgay.
  3. Nando attended Stella Maris College, a prestigious school in Montevideo.
  4. He was a talented rugby player, playing for the Old Christians Club.
  5. Nando's father, Seler Parrado, was a successful businessman, providing a comfortable upbringing for his family.

The Andes Plane Crash

The tragic Andes plane crash in 1972 is a pivotal event in Nando Parrado's life. Here are some crucial facts about this harrowing experience.

  1. On October 13, 1972, Nando and his rugby team boarded a Fairchild FH-227D aircraft bound for Chile.
  2. The plane crashed in the Andes Mountains due to poor weather and navigation errors.
  3. Out of the 45 passengers, only 16 survived the initial crash.
  4. Nando was unconscious for three days after the crash, suffering a skull fracture.
  5. His mother, Eugenia, and sister, Susana, were also on the flight but did not survive.

Survival in the Andes

Surviving in the harsh conditions of the Andes Mountains required immense courage and resourcefulness. Here are some facts about how Nando and his fellow survivors managed to stay alive.

  1. The survivors faced extreme cold, with temperatures dropping to -30°C (-22°F) at night.
  2. They had limited food supplies, initially surviving on chocolate and wine.
  3. Nando and the others resorted to cannibalism, consuming the bodies of deceased passengers to stay alive.
  4. Nando emerged as a leader among the survivors, helping to maintain morale.
  5. He and Roberto Canessa embarked on a 10-day trek to find help, covering over 38 miles (61 kilometers).

Rescue and Aftermath

The rescue of Nando Parrado and his fellow survivors is a testament to human endurance and hope. Here are some key facts about their rescue and the aftermath.

  1. Nando and Roberto Canessa encountered Sergio Catalán, a Chilean shepherd, who helped alert authorities.
  2. The survivors were rescued on December 20, 1972, after 72 days in the Andes.
  3. Nando lost over 40 pounds (18 kilograms) during the ordeal.
  4. He was reunited with his father, Seler Parrado, who had never given up hope.
  5. The story of the crash and rescue was later documented in the book "Alive" by Piers Paul Read.

Life After the Andes

Nando Parrado's life after the Andes crash is marked by resilience and a determination to make the most of his second chance. Here are some facts about his life post-rescue.

  1. Nando married Veronique Van Wassenhove in 1979.
  2. He has two daughters, Veronique and Cecilia.
  3. Nando became a successful businessman, running a family-owned hardware store.
  4. He is also a motivational speaker, sharing his story of survival with audiences worldwide.
  5. Nando co-authored the book "Miracle in the Andes" with Vince Rause, detailing his experiences.

Legacy and Impact

Nando Parrado's story has left a lasting impact on many people. Here are some facts about his legacy and influence.

  1. The 1993 film "Alive" is based on the book by Piers Paul Read and features Nando's story.
  2. Nando's story has inspired countless individuals to overcome adversity.
  3. He has received numerous awards for his contributions to motivational speaking.
  4. Nando's experiences have been studied in psychology and survival courses.
  5. He continues to advocate for resilience and the power of the human spirit.

Personal Interests and Hobbies

Beyond his incredible survival story, Nando Parrado has a rich personal life filled with various interests and hobbies. Here are some facts about what he enjoys.

  1. Nando is an avid car racing enthusiast and has participated in numerous races.
  2. He enjoys skiing, a sport he took up after his ordeal in the Andes.
  3. Nando loves spending time with his family, often traveling with them.
  4. He is passionate about photography, capturing moments from his travels and daily life.

Nando Parrado's Legacy

Nando Parrado's story is one of resilience and courage. Surviving the Andes plane crash, he showed incredible determination and leadership. His journey from tragedy to triumph inspires many. Parrado's actions during the ordeal, including his trek to find help, saved lives and demonstrated the power of human spirit. His book, "Miracle in the Andes," offers a firsthand account of the harrowing experience, providing readers with a deep understanding of survival and hope. Beyond his survival tale, Parrado has become a motivational speaker, sharing his experiences to inspire others to overcome their own challenges. His legacy is not just about surviving against all odds but also about thriving and helping others find their strength. Nando Parrado's life reminds us that even in the darkest times, hope and perseverance can lead to extraordinary outcomes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What did Nando Parrado do to become famous?
Nando Parrado earned his fame as one of the 16 survivors of the 1972 Andes plane crash. This harrowing event saw him and his fellow survivors endure 72 days in the mountains before Parrado and Roberto Canessa made a grueling 10-day trek across the Andes to find help, ultimately saving those who remained.
How did Nando Parrado contribute to the rescue of the other survivors?
After surviving the crash, Parrado and Roberto Canessa embarked on a perilous journey across the Andes. Their determination led them to find help, which resulted in the rescue of the remaining survivors. Parrado's bravery and resilience were key to their survival and rescue.
Has Nando Parrado written any books about his experience?
Yes, Parrado co-authored "Miracle in the Andes: 72 Days on the Mountain and My Long Trek Home," a memoir detailing his experiences during and after the crash. This book offers a firsthand account of his incredible story of survival, perseverance, and hope.
What lessons does Nando Parrado share from his ordeal?
Parrado often speaks about the power of the human spirit, the importance of hope, and the strength found in facing adversity. He emphasizes that the will to survive, love for family, and the bond between the survivors were crucial in overcoming the challenges they faced.
Did Nando Parrado continue his adventures after the Andes?
Following his ordeal in the Andes, Parrado became a successful businessman and television producer. He also engages in motivational speaking, sharing his story and the lessons learned from his incredible survival experience with audiences around the world.
How has Nando Parrado's story been shared with the public?
Besides his memoir, Parrado's story has been featured in the book "Alive: The Story of the Andes Survivors" by Piers Paul Read, which was later adapted into a film titled "Alive" in 1993. His tale has also been the subject of numerous documentaries and interviews, reaching a global audience.
What impact did the Andes plane crash have on Nando Parrado's life philosophy?
The crash profoundly impacted Parrado's outlook on life. He often talks about cherishing every moment, the importance of family and friends, and not taking life for granted. His experience taught him the value of resilience and the power of human will in the face of adversity.

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