Background
Riley Schillaci was born on December 22, 1982, in Rochester, New New York
Riley Schillaci was born on December 22, 1982, in Rochester, New New York
In her childhood, she observed a relative who swallowed forks and knives and stuck licorice up his nose, only to have it reemerge through his mouth. At around 14, Schillaci decided to try swallowing objects because she believed the talent was genetic. She conditioned her "gag reflex" with toothbrushes and kitchen utensils.
She moved on to swallowing drum sticks and glow sticks, and by post-college she swallowed swords.
She swallowed her first sword (17 inches (43 cm)) in a sword store. Her second sword (36 inches (91 cm)) was ordered by mail.
"until it just barely hit the bottom of my stomach"". She cut off the protruding part, making the sword 19 inches (48 cm).
Other Having earned a degree in sociology and heath science, Schillaci has worked in factories, special education, child care, web development, and in administration.
Her hobbies include writing and playing music
And is a member of the Sword Swallowers Association International.