Any kind of medical condition, a cut, a bruise, a cold , the flu all take a lot longer to heal. The higher we are the thinner the air and the less oxygen. The longer our recovery – frustrating to say the least. Both Brooke and I continue to improve but ever so slowly. I have had fitful nights of sleep hoping to feel better the following morning only to find I am marginally improved. So it is a day at a time and like everything at altitude, slowly slowly, paulie, paulie. Robert assures us this is all part of the Everest experience and to take it all in stride.
So today we decided to go for a little walk to test the wobbly legs and venture into the famous ice falls. We went out on the route we will eventually take to Camp 1 once we are feeling better. The ice falls are gorgeous, mind captivating and rather fun to climb through. Okay they’re dangerous as hell. As we were slowly heading out we had the rare fortune of bumping into two of the famous “Ice Fall Doctors” These are the guys upon whom we all depend and who in the course of the entire climbing season will maintain the route through the ice falls. Without them and their expertise things would be very different here. These are the guys who put the ladders across the crevasses and up and over the enormous chunks of ice. Most days they are out there early checking the route and making adjustments as needed. Already our Sherpa have carried supplies to Camp 2. This morning the route was closed in order that the ice fall docs could repair and maintain it and by later in the morning it was business as usual. I got to meet them on their way home from just another day at the office. I waa touched by their calmness and competence. The gentleman I met has been an ice fall doc for nine years. He proudly showed off his title stitched on his faded ball cap “Everest Ice Fall Doctor” with his name on the back.
He assured me all was well on the route. It is even better than last year and he was anxious to see me climb it! Me too!
In the meantime back to my tent with tea and lots of tissuee thank goodness for some good books cause otherwise I would be feeling very sorry for myself just now.
Before I forget! My heartfelt thanks to all of you for your comments and following my adventure! I try to read as many as I can, they do come through and I so appreciate knowing nyou are all behind me. This is harder than anything I have ever faced and the daily challenges are unbelievable. I am staying totally “in the moment” taking it one day at a time otherwise the goal is far too lofty. An amamzing place and an amazing experience! My love and again my incredible gratitude for sharing this with me!
Climb On!
Wendy Booker's Blog 
Wendy
Having the flu at sea level is bad enough, I can not imagine what it would be like at altitude.. Thankfully you have plenty of time to get well and get your strength back.. Take it slow and easy. We are all behind you.
Todd
Wendy,
I live in Boulder and I have climbed with ML in the past. Today I woke up feeling sorry for myself because my chronic back pain is really preventing me from doing the type of training I need to be doing in order to (hopefully) participate in ML’s trek to EBC in the fall.
I just happened to click on your link this morning while I was playing around on the ML site.
Your 5 minute video has me in tears.
Thank you so much…thats all I really have to say.
Thank you.
You have given me new motivation today…for this day…..and that is all that any of us really have…THIS DAY.
I will think of you as I struggle thru my run out at the Boulder res. today.
My thoughts are with you up there today!
Thank you…
Kristin
Boulder, CO
Just want you to know I look for your blog every day—Wendy-REST and get better. This is it! It It is all going to play out—take a step for the rest of us who cannot… Love you-and just hoping you get better soon so you can complete the climb. You go girl!
Hey Chickie! Glad you got to see the doctor–where you are I think an ice fall doctor visit is much more important than a regular old MD…Speaking of good books, have you started into your journal yet (other than Beth’s message of course!)? Pixie’s message may be fitting today! Feel better, then get up there!!! (but don’t let me rush you)
GO my Nepalese Red Sox Team!!!!
PLF,
Sheryl 😉
Hi Honey
glad to hear you are feeling a bit better and lucky you meeting the ice doctor. slow and steady; one day at a time. You got this girl. You climb and I am planning the NYC marathon
miss you
much love
Lisa
Hi Wendy,
Each time I pull up the blog I am hoping and praying that you are feeling better. I am sure it is very hard but remember that everything happens for reason. I have faith that you will make it to the summit. As always you are in my thoughts and prayers.
With Love, Jonna
“Life should NOT be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in an attractive and well preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways, chocolate in one hand, body thoroughly used up, totally worn out and screaming “WOO HOO what a ride!”
-unknown
Hi Wendy!
Just wanted to drop you a quick note to let you know we are all thinking of you here at Absolute Performance PT! You have been the talk of the clinic for some time now. Anytime someone mentions “some lady with MS climbing Everest” I proudly brag: “she’s my patient!!!” You are so strong and I am so lucky to know you.
Rest a lot and climb strong!
Antonella
The Charmans are watching your progress withe optimism, Wendy. You’ll get over the flu and be able to enjoy your stunning surroundings. Take good care of yourself. Chicken soup!
Happy birthday kiddo. Feel better and climb on slowly and safely. We love you.
Learned of your climb this evening. Very impressive.
Wendy,
My thoughts and prayers are with you (and your Mom) everyday! I wish you better health and strong determination! Remember that no matter what…you are all ready a hero and a huge inspiration to many people! I am proud to have met you!! God Speed!!
Hey Wend,
Now I do believe there has been a birthday that has passed by while you have been treking away – and I do believe it is your birthday. So, belated happy birthday wishes to you. I would guess that you didn’t have a cake with candles, but I’m sure you enjoyed your special day.
I can’t wait to hear all of your stories in great detail!
Keep up the good work.
Love,
PC
HAPPY BIRTHDAY WENDY! Yep……you are celebrating a birthday at base camp. I will keep your insulting card here as I must pay you back. Thinking of you every day and I check up on Mom frequently. Lots of love and kisses and safe wishes from your older (but much wiser) sister.
A diplomat is a man who always remembers a woman’s birthday but never remembers her age.
Robert Frost
What a wonderful day it is, it is not only your Birthday but also a day you are in the midst of living a dream. Hope your day is wonderful.
Luv Ya, Jonna
With a gulp in my throat I type this short note of encouragement to you WENDY! I was just reviewing some conference materials and slowly putting two and two together I’m realizing you are the same woman from an article I read and YOU are also our guest speaker for the Silpada Designs National Jewelry conference this July, I’m most anxious to hear you story and wish you a safe journey Up & Down Everest! The victory is already yours for showing up. Get uncomfortable and kick your own ass that always is the best kind of pain when a challenge is before me, it reminds me I’m ALIVE!
Barbie
Hello Wendy!
I’m glad you and Brooke are on the mend. Just heard “Katmandu” on the radio which made me think of you. So here I am, and there you are. I would have given anything to be there with you at the Puja, it sounded like a great party. Jen had to fly back to CA today to see her sis in the hospital. Not to worry. Everybody’s OK. The baby might decide to come a little early, that’s all. Is today you birthday? What a stupid question. I’m gonna take you sisters word for it and wish you a happy birthday. Well I better go.
Wishing you the best. Climb On!
Shawn
Hi Honey
Hope your birthday was a happy one. There will be carrot cake upon your return
much love
Lisa