Jan. 12 – At 4:42 p.m., with the late sun still hanging in

the sky, Haitian people fill the streets, some wandering about,

others scrambling to reach a destination. At 4:43 p.m., a 7.0 magnitude earthquake with 150 tons of TNT in force hits the Caribbean nation of Haiti. The devastating effects of the earthquake not only include a death toll of 250,000 people, but also displaced 1.5 million people and orphaned many more. Total recovery, though full of obstacles, is still a goal to work toward. Shortly after the news of destruction, many famous musicians gathered to record the emotional “We Are the World 25 for Haiti” as an encouragement to victims and an incentive for much-needed donations.

April 13 – The province of Qinghai in China felt a 6.9 magnitude earthquake, killing more than 2,000 people with many more injured.

Oct. 13 – Thirty three Chilean miners saw the world collapse over their heads as they were trapped 700 meters underground in a mining accident. Filled with hope and persistence on survival, these miners endured 69 days of sunless living. With an organized system of living and daily routines, the miners were able to maintain healthy bodies while waiting for rescue.