Turia Pitt’s life changed forever on September 2, 2011. The 24-year-old Australian mining engineer, model, and former Miss Australia contestant seemed to have it all—a promising career, beauty, and a loving partner, Michael Hoskins. But during a 100-kilometer ultramarathon organized by RacingThePlanet in Western Australia, Turia found herself fighting for her life when a sudden grassfire engulfed the trail.
Forty runners started the ultramarathon that fateful day. However, only a quarter of the race had been completed when the surrounding grass and bushes caught fire. Fires of this kind are common in Australia during the dry season, but the race organizers failed to implement essential safety measures.
As the fire spread rapidly, the runners were left in a perilous situation. Turia, caught in the flames, made the desperate decision to run through the blaze to survive. She sustained third-degree burns on 65% of her body. Her injuries were severe—her nose was nearly destroyed, five fingers were amputated, and she underwent over 200 surgeries to save her life.Turia spent a total of 864 days in the hospital, enduring physical pain, emotional trauma, and countless medical procedures. For a time, she questioned why the doctors had fought to save her life. Her once-flawless skin and striking beauty were replaced by scars that made her hesitant to leave her home, fearing the judgment and stares of others.
But Turia wasn’t alone in her struggle. Michael Hoskins, her high school sweetheart, remained steadfastly by her side throughout her recovery. He left his job to care for her, tending to her needs, helping her regain mobility, and offering unwavering emotional support.