Alex woke up this morning feeling a bit of congestion in his lungs that seems like a bit of Pulmonary Edema. It is something that happens at altitude, and fluid will seep into the lungs. It was pretty mild, but did require him to get to lower altitude and ended the trip for him. It was an unfortunate ending for him, but it is a problem he's had previously. So, Durny and Mike Burmeister (our guides) skied down to basecamp with Alex today while the rest of the crew took an extra rest day at Camp 2. Alex has already flown out to the waiting Mountain Trip van, and is in Anchorage tonight feeling much much better in the thick Oxygenated air of Anchorage.
Durny and Mike are leaving for Camp 2 tonight after the snow has a chance to refreeze a bit from the hot day, and expect to be there by 2am.
The team was sad to see Alex need to leave, but health and safety obviously come first.
What a bummer about Alex. Sorry to hear it; glad he's well now!
ReplyDeleteMelv - thanks for the birthday wishes! I'll eat an extra cupcake, or two, for you :) Miss your guts! BIG HUG! Cupcakes, Snow & Sunshine, Katie
fun & safe journey to you all!
Sorry to hear about the loss of a team member but good he is doing well now. It is up to the three of you now! Keep up the good work. Mellie Bellie, the Pittsburgh support are all thinking of you and the team!! Hugs and kisses Love Mom
ReplyDeleteSuper Bummer Alex, enjoy some of that fat lowland oxygen and you will soon be felling better.
ReplyDeleteTo Mel and the rest of the team, keep up the good work, all of Boulder is supporting this teams climb. Best of luck for the rest of the climb.
Richard reporting here.
Sorry your trip got cut short Alex but glad you're doing better. Big props for giving it a go! Can't wait to see pics and hear about the trip.
ReplyDeleteIt was a total bummer to hear about Alex's conditions, however, kudos to Alex for pushing his limits!
ReplyDeleteMs. Miller, I am sure you are kicking that mountain’s ass by now, so keep up the good work. Your peeps in Bozeman are sending lots of love.
Sorry about Alex and hope the gang is doing great as it rocks Denali...with respect of course.
ReplyDeleteHave missed the updates over the last few days--send an update soon so we hear the latest and greatest.
Hope all is well Melarina. Thinking of you lots.
Courtney