This original Oscars photo from 1972 is not edited. Observe it closely and try not to gasp when you see it in the first comment below😱

In 1985, Colombia faced one of its deadliest natural disasters when the Nevado del Ruiz volcano erupted, unleashing deadly lahars that buried the town of Armero. The catastrophe claimed over 20,000 lives, leaving destruction and grief in its wake. Among the victims was 13-year-old Omayra Sánchez Garzón, who became a tragic symbol of the disaster’s human toll.

Omayra was trapped beneath debris in neck-deep water, her legs pinned by concrete and rubble, leaving her immobile. Volunteers worked tirelessly to rescue her, but the situation was dire: there was no equipment capable of freeing her safely. For 60 agonizing hours, Omayra remained trapped, enduring extreme cold and the growing threat of infection. Despite her predicament, she displayed remarkable courage and composure, offering comfort and conversation to those around her.

French photojournalist Frank Fournier captured the haunting image of Omayra during these final hours. The photograph, which would go on to win the 1986 World Press Photo of the Year, depicts her struggling to survive, her bloodshot eyes reflecting both pain and extraordinary resilience. While the image sparked criticism from some who felt Fournier should have focused solely on rescue efforts, he explained that documenting her plight was a way to raise awareness of the disaster and the urgent need for aid. His photo brought global attention to the tragedy, highlighting both the human suffering and the inadequacies of emergency response.

Tragically, Omayra passed away on November 16, after enduring a prolonged and painful struggle. Experts believe her death was likely caused by gangrene or hypothermia. Her story remains a poignant reminder of the fragility of life in the face of natural disasters and the strength of the human spirit under extreme circumstances. Fournier’s photograph immortalized her bravery, ensuring that Omayra Sánchez Garzón would not be forgotten and that the Armero tragedy would resonate around the world as a call for compassion and preparedness in the face of calamity.