In The News

Fabricated News Reports

Kristen’s 2018 hippopotamus attack during a guided canoe safari in Zimbabwe is a striking example of how press reporting can fracture after a major event. While numerous global media outlets covered the incident, a comparative analysis of the published articles reveals a staggering amount of misinformation and conflicting data.

Rather than sticking to verified facts, multiple reports introduced fabricated plot points. Outlets falsely attributed the attack to a protective mother hippo, incorrectly claimed non-compliance with the safari guides, said I punched the hippo repeatedly, and erroneously reported a fatal outcome. Some articles spelled my name incorrectly, promoted other tours they claimed we attended, and stated I never attempted to swim to safety. This spread of false information highlights a critical lesson in modern media literacy: published news is not inherently factual. Some of these articles are displayed in the Falsely Reported Articles section that can be found <here>.

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Fox Flights from Sky Magazine

I was transported home via an emergency flight operated by two different carriers from Johannesburg to Tampa. We had 7 stops for refueling along our route and a total travel time of roughly 36 hours. Due to the long duration, it required a change in aircraft and flight crew midway in the Canary Islands. The photos below are of the flight path, first air crew before our change, and the unforgettable memory of poutine from our final air flight company, Fox Flights! During the trip, we had quite a few funny moments with the crew that turned into an unforgettable experience (but certainly not as unforgettable as being attacked by a hippo). These moment certainly stuck with us even to this day and apparently it did for the flight crew as well. Read about the interesting journey, wonderful hospitality and ownership of Fox Flights especially at the end of the article in the “got poutine” section. The article is posted <here>.

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Guest Appearances / Interviews: Videos

To maintain the integrity of my survival story, I have deliberately restricted my media appearances. I have engaged with only a nominal number of journalists to guarantee a precise, unembellished record. The list below represents the only media coverage authorized as accurate, factual reporting that I directly appeared in and interviewed with.

Click on the <view here> link to watch (opens to a new window). Some videos may require a user subscriptions to watch.

Pictures below are of behind the scenes interview setup with Inside Edition and interview with Paula Faris with Good Morning America.

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Recovery Progress Guest Appearances / Interviews: Articles, Videos, and Podcast

Throughout my recovery journey, I participated in several media interviews to highlight my commitment to rehabilitation and the determination required to overcome significant challenges. I wanted to use these opportunities to inspire and motivate others who may be facing their own difficult circumstances—to encourage them to remain resilient, never give up, and continue striving toward the best possible outcome for themselves.

As I was learning to walk again, Ryan registered us for a Disney 5K as a personal challenge and as a goal for me to work toward during my recovery. I embraced the challenge while also using the opportunity to raise funds for charity. What began as a recovery milestone became an important personal achievement and a meaningful way to give back to others.

Below are the media outlets that I collaborated with to share information about my recovery journey and this significant milestone in my rehabilitation. These interviews provide insight into my experience, the challenges I faced, and the goals I established throughout my recovery.

Click on the <view here> link to watch (opens to a new window). NOTE some may require subscriptions to read.

  • Tampa Bay Times – One Year Later <view here>
  • Tampa Bay 28 News <view here>
  • Spectrum Bay News Tampa <view here>
  • Fox13 Tampa <view here>
  • Bloom Health & Lifestyle TV with Clarissa Galloway <video unavailable>
  • Podcast – “Won Nothing Podcast” – E20 Won Something <view here>

Pictures below are of us on the set of Bloom TV with Clarissa and Jeff Galloway and a pictures from the Disney 5K race at the start with Clarissa and one after completion with my medal.

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What It Feels Like

I did an interview with Esquire Magazine about “What It Feels Like” to touch a hippo. Click on the thumbnail to view the full size image.

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Insurance

I did an interview with an author and friend about our trip insurance and what type of coverage we had that assisted with my medical flight home.

Click the link below to read the article <here>

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