Life Changing Hostage Survival
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Dec 4, 2024 Nick Hitch, a civil engineer who endured a harrowing hostage situation in Algeria, shares his gripping story with Dr. Sian Williams. He recounts surviving a violent attack affiliated with Al-Qaeda, where he faced life-threatening situations alongside colleagues, some of whom tragically did not survive. The conversation dives into the long-lasting effects of trauma, including PTSD, and discusses how Nick now aids fellow survivors through Hostage International. His insights reveal the profound importance of community support and emotional healing in recovery.
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The Attack Begins
- Nick Hitch began his day in Algeria like any other, but a fire alarm disrupted the routine.
- During breakfast, a terrorist fired over their heads, marking the start of a hostage crisis.
Taken Hostage
- Nick and his colleagues hid in their living quarters, but the terrorists found them.
- The terrorists forced them to call their families and employers for maximum news coverage.
Mock Execution
- The terrorists placed explosives around the hostages' necks, threatening detonation if they attempted escape.
- Nick was told he would be the first to be executed at 10:00 am, leading to intense fear and prayer.