1,775 Days of Captivity

About the Book

“Beyond the fascinating details and geopolitical intricacies of his journey through captivity and eventual release, Jorge’s personal spiritual construct is even more striking. His articulation of the human spirit and its interconnection with all facets of life is a journey in itself. While you might approach this book for its international intrigue, you will leave with much more profound insights.” – Mickey Bergman, founder, CEO, and chief intergovernmental mediator, Global Reach. “If you want a gripping and impactful story of one man’s path to self-mastery and enlightenment, then this is your book. But this book is not about Jorge’s path – it is about yours. Read his words and let your journey begin.” – Ambassador Roger D. Carstens, special presidential envoy for hostage affairs, 2020-2025 “Jorge Toledo’s story is a beautifully written testament to the strength of the human spirit when inspired by love and faith. His captivating memoir encapsulates both the horror and human cost of an unjust arrest and the gratitude and deep joy of freedom.” – Diane Foley, president and founder of the James W. Foley Legacy Foundation “Jorge L. Toledo’s powerful story leaves no doubt about the injustice, inhumanity, and widespread impact of wrongful detention at a time when we are seeing a worrying increase in these cases. Nonetheless, Toledo’s resilience and human spirit take the reader down a path of hope, growth and recovery. This is a sensitive and touching account of hostage survival.” – Lara Symons, CEO, Hostage International This gripping memoir chronicles the author’s harrowing experience as a political prisoner in Venezuela. Jorge L. Toledo takes readers on an emotional journey through his wrongful detention, exploring themes of resilience, hope, and the indomitable human spirit. A former CITGO executive, he provides a raw and unflinching account of his time in the notorious DGCIM and El Helicoide prisons, revealing the physical and psychological torture he endured. Amid the struggle to maintain his sanity and dignity, he discovered an inner strength and a profound capacity for growth. Toledo shares the mental strategies and spiritual practices that helped him endure 1,775 days of captivity, offering readers valuable lessons on resilience and personal growth. Along the way, he offers insights into the geopolitical complexities that led to his imprisonment, shedding light on Venezuela’s turbulent political landscape. He also pays tribute to the unwavering support of his family, particularly his wife Carmen, who served as a beacon of hope. Join the author as he shares a compelling story of injustice, perseverance, and ultimate triumph in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges.

About the Author

Jorge L. Toledo, a Venezuelan-born American citizen, formerly worked as an oil and gas executive. He’s also an accomplished musician, marathon runner, and survivor of 1,775 days of unjust detention in Venezuela. He draws upon his experiences as a professional speaker, advocating against hostage diplomacy and inspiring others with his story of endurance and transformation.