Roberto Canessa, born on January 17, 1953 in Uruguay, was a medical student and a recent graduate of Stella Maris College in Montevideo at the time of the doomed flight that would change his life forever. Little did he know that his journey would take him to the heights of heroism and endurance in the face of unimaginable hardship.
On October 13, 1972, Roberto Canessa found himself fighting for his life as a survivor of the crash of the Uruguayan Air Force's Flight 571 in the Andes mountains. Determined to seek help, Canessa embarked on a harrowing journey that would span over a week, while his fellow crash survivors followed his lead and resorted to cannibalism to stay alive. It was a dark and desperate time, but Canessa's courage and leadership proved to be the saving grace for himself and his companions.
After being rescued from the Andes, Roberto Canessa went on to achieve great success and make a lasting impact on the world. He became a motivational speaker, sharing his incredible story of survival and resilience with audiences around the globe. In addition to his work as a speaker, Canessa also pursued a career as a cardiologist, using his medical expertise to help others in need.
Roberto Canessa's personal life is just as inspiring as his professional accomplishments. His marriage to Laura Surraco resulted in the birth of three children: Roberto Martin, Laura Ines, and Hilario. Despite the challenges he has faced, Canessa has always put his family first and found strength in their love and support.
In 1994, Roberto Canessa took a bold step into the world of politics by running for the Uruguayan presidency. Though he was ultimately defeated by Julio Maria Sanguinetti, Canessa's dedication to public service and his commitment to making a difference in the world were evident in his campaign. His experience as a survivor of the Andes crash shaped his perspective on leadership and fueled his desire to create positive change for his country.
Roberto Canessa's story is one of resilience, courage, and determination in the face of adversity. His extraordinary journey from the depths of the Andes to the heights of success serves as a shining example of the human spirit's capacity to overcome even the most unimaginable challenges. Through his work as a speaker, a doctor, and a political candidate, Canessa continues to inspire others to never give up hope, no matter how insurmountable the odds may seem.
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