Sole Survivor Finds Peace in the Vietnam Jungle years After Plane Crash
Hanoi, Vietnam – Nearly three decades after being the lone survivor of a devastating plane crash in the Vietnamese jungle, Annette Herfkens continues to share a message of resilience and the power of instinct. Herfkens was aboard Vietnam Airlines Flight 815 when it crashed in 1992, leaving her stranded for days before being rescued – a harrowing experience she detailed in her book, Turbulence: I Survived a Plane Disaster.
The crash, which claimed the lives of all other passengers and crew, initially appeared a tragedy with no hope.Yet, Herfkens’ story has become a testament to the human spirit’s capacity to endure and find strength in the face of unimaginable adversity. Now, she speaks openly about the unexpected peace she found amidst the chaos, hoping her experience will empower others to recognize their own inner fortitude.
Despite the trauma, Herfkens describes the jungle not as a antagonistic environment, but as a place of surprising beauty and tranquility.”It was so stunning. Sometimes I close my eyes and I go back to ‘my’ jungle,” she recounts. “It has taught me how powerful it is indeed to live in the moment.” Herfkens believes her survival hinged on trusting her instincts and embracing acceptance. “Your instinct knows what to do, if you allow it. it is indeed vital not to judge, not yourself and not about others.Accept what is not there, then you see the beauty of what is there. That has saved me.”
Herfkens’ story resonates deeply with those facing their own challenges, offering a unique perspective on overcoming adversity. A rescuer saved her life, and she simply stated, “That has to be like that.” Her book and continued sharing of her experience serve as a powerful reminder of the strength within us all, and the importance of living fully in the present.
