Well the Road Back to Mt. Everest: Memories are Everything has come to an end. Thanks to your generosity, about $25,000 was donated to the Cure Alzheimer's Fund - well short of my $100,000 goal.
When I started this journey in January 2007, I set two goals: raise money and awareness for Alzheimer's research and return to Everest. Now that it is over, I am pleased on both counts but hoped for more donations. There is still time. Just click on this link to make your donation online.
It was an incredible year. I never in my wildest dreams thought I would take on such a huge challenge of climbing five big mountains and doing fund raising at such a level. I was not alone and special thanks go to Katie Cutler of the Cure Alzheimer's Fund and to my wife, Cathy.
Progress continues to be made on Alzheimer's and in fact this week some exciting news was announced. But for many it is too late. My Mom is doing as well as can be expected. She remembers me and my brother but none of the details of our lives or her's for that fact.
I am shocked by how many people have been impacted by this horrible disease. I hope you never come in contact with it.
Again, thanks to all who donated. Especially to the students at East High School in Kentucky, Webber Jr. High, Bolz Jr. High in Colorado and Stratford in California - you guys rock!!
Now for the last part of Everest 2008: Mountain of Politics
This is the last of a four part series on Everest 2008. It represents my views and experiences of Everest's South Side in the Spring of 2008.
Part 1 looked at the rumors and confusion surrounding Everest as we planned our climb and during the trek to Base Camp.
Part 2 detailed the surprise of new rules and regulations established by the Nepalese on all Everest climbers plus the protest at Camp 1.
Part 3 covered our climb to Camp 2 and 3 plus what a Nepal Army sniper was doing at Camp 2 on Everest!!
Part 4 is a personal account of my summit night on Everest
note: the PDF document contains all the sections.
Climb On!
Alan
