November 2012: fundraising abseils, Franklin River raft plans
It’s been a busy few months for Andrew with his community activities. After raising $1650 in donations for the Australian Himalayan Foundation by competing in the Blackmores Sydney Running Festival, Andrew made an incredible 14 abseil descents over 2 days…
The attempt
Back in Kathmandu, enjoying the questionable delights of civilisation; horns, pollution, crowds, heat and flies. Thankfully, no giant bats.
Word at last!
First up, no. I turned around at 8500 metres, just a few hundred metres from the summit, due to some early but very strong signs of HACE (high altitude cerebral oedema). Symptoms – double vision, vomiting, micro sleeps (whilst climbing!), falling and hallucinations (giant bats).
Crowds and clouds
Back last night from yet another trip to the North col at 7000 metres. There wasn’t time to send a despatch before I went up (only because this *&^% internet hook-up is so unreliable). Funny how dependant you become on something you never had before…
Waiting game
We’ve been hearing stories of expedition’s cancelling on the south (Nepal) side of the mountain due to rock fall; a result of the very dry season. On our side however, the mountain conditions are ok. Our biggest issue is the wind.
