A Message from Dave

Dave Annand has been out of touch for a few days since he was forced to turn back to Lobuche. Today he found an Internet Cafe and sent us an update. Here is his account:

Two days from Base Camp and my luck changed. I had felt very strong, eaten well and drunk 3-4 litres of water per day. All was well until the evening in the lodge at Dingboche where I developed a violent stomach bug. No sleep and no appetite did not bode well for the trek to Lobuche the next day. I was determined to do it so I set off in the freshly fallen snow with lots of water and a positive attitude. After just half an hour my body rebelled. My head felt like it was going to explode, I felt sick and I had no energy at all. Gavin sent me with a Sherpa to Periche to see a doctor. So I bid farewell to the group hoping that a move down the mountain would see me fit for the next day to catch up.

The American doctor was very thorough and she confirmed that I had Acute Mountain Sickness unfortunately coupled with a stomach bug. I was given medication and told to rest in a lodge in Periche. I felt awful; I could not eat and just wanted to go to sleep. During the evening I was violently sick and there was no improvement in my condition the following morning. I visited the Doctor again and she told me to walk down to Deboche to alleviate the AMS symptoms at least. I was dreadfully disappointed as I knew that this spelled the end of my adventure.

I stayed in Deboche on Saturday night and received calls from Andy, Glyn and Gavin to check on my health. They were so supportive and I wished them well for their ascent to Base Camp on Sunday. I am now in Namche Bazaar waiting for the group to come down. I feel much better but it will take a few more days until I am 100%. During the walk down I was treated to some interesting stories by my porter Lakpha about the mountains.

Mega congratulations to the rest of the group for reaching Base Camp. The boys have amazed me with their determination and positive attitude. They have never moaned and, believe me, on some of the treks they would have had every right to! The whole group has gelled superbly to make the adventure very successful. I look forward to seeing them and hearing all about Base Camp.

The trip has been an amazing experience for me and although I did not get the icing at least I got the chance to eat the cake!!!

Dave

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