
Spirits in base camp are on
the mend after the tragic loss we all experienced on April 21. The last two
days have been occupied with the mourning of our loss and tending to the
injured. In addition, we have been busy gathering witness reports and
photographs to file with the Ministry of Tourism, which controls climbing on
Mount Everest. Today was a beautiful day and our team's Sherpas entered the
Icefall to recover gear and supplies abandoned during the accident. They took
the gear to Camp I (at the top of the Icefall) and then headed to Camp II with
additional supplies.
After extensive soul
searching, thought, and discussion between team members and our Sherpas, the
team has decided to continue with the expedition. We continue our venture in
memory of our friends and with great hope and determination. Tomorrow, April
24, the team will commence its initial acclimatization plan by climbing thru
the Icefall (19,500 ft.). We will spend two nights at Camp I and during that
time, make an acclimatization climb to Camp II (21,500 ft.). We may spend a
night or two at Camp II, depending on the condition of our team members and
the Camp II logistics. We will then descend to base camp for rest and
recovery.
Although our plans were
delayed by a three day storm and the accident, we feel confident that
sufficient time remains for proper acclimatization and a summit bid. Patience
and fortitude are key and our strategy is to make haste, slowly.
A word on the lost and
injured Sherpa members:
Lhakpa Tseri Sherpa was 32
years old and he resided in the village of Mende, in the Khumbu Valley. He was
married and had three children. Dawa Temba Sherpa was 22 years old and he was
loved in the village of Thomo - also in the Khumbu Valley. He too was married
and his wife is pregnant with their first child. Lhakpa and Dawa were
wonderful men and it's difficult to fathom the grief that their families are
experiencing during this time of extreme sorrow.
Padasang Nuru Sherpa and
Mingma Tenging Sherpa are both recovering from injuries in base camp. Padasang
Nuru's injuries were more significant and his injuries have likely ended his
climbing season. He will continue to rest in base camp for a day or two before
returning home.
As always, we appreciate your
prayers and thoughts . . . especially for our lost and their families.
Everest 2006: Team No Limits
Dispatches
|