Reaching Beyond the Clouds

Almost to the minute, one year ago I walked out of the airport secured-area and into my family’s arms. I had been gone for exactly 60 days and I cannot describe the feeling of being home!

A fantasic ending to my Everest Adventure!

It is just amazing to think that one year ago today, I stood on the top of the world! I still look back at it as if it were a dream, but I have the photos to prove it :)  Today Larry and I summited Mt. Baldy to celebrate the anniversary; but unlike Everest, we stood on the summit together!

May is Vasculitis Awareness Month so last night I gave my Everest Presentation at REI to a full house. I still get a little emotional every time I tell the story; and I have friends who are on Everest now waiting for their weather-window to open so they can go for the summit. I wish them well and hope they stay safe.

Here is a picture of me trying to explain what vasculitis is to a dolphin, but I got the feeling he didn’t understand.

It is so strange to think that last Mother’s Day I was in Dingboche resting for our summit attempt.

That was the first time I met Dr. Peter Hackett, the World’s leading high-altitude medical researcher and Everest ER doctor. He summited in 1981 (the year my lovely daughter was born).

My Mother’s Day present to myself was a HOT shower! Memories :)

At the Snow Lion Lodge on Mother's Day.