After a long day of travelling, the team arrived in Lukla in a unique style after being informed that due to unforeseen circumstances with the weather forecast, they would have to travel by helicopter. This proved to be the first challenge of many for some of the trekkers as they overcame new fears, descending into the Himalayas to their starting point.
Thankfully the skies were clear, following this, and the team set off, excited about the 130km journey ahead of them.
The team began to discover just how challenging this expedition was going to be as they ascended more than 2500m, navigating tricky terrain and the thinner atmosphere. Taking it slow and steady, spirits were kept high by nominating a member of the team, each day, to wear ‘Elephant Ears’ for the entire day walking. Not only did this bring great amusement throughout the group with a subtle nod to our charity mascot ‘Gorgeous George’ the elephant but, also served as a poignant reminder that “elephants never forget” and neither will we.
Another unforgettable moment encountered was their route across the Hillary Bridge, named after the first person to reach the summit of Mount Everest in 1953, Sir Edmund Hillary. Due to the amount of foot traffic, a newer version of the bridge was constructed in the early 2000s but the original suspension bridge can be seen several metres below.
Continuing their ascent from Namche to Kyangjuma the trekkers took on a day of more tough terrain, highlighted by a stop at a local school named after Sir Edmund Hillary, followed by a visit to a Buddhist monastery. This was a timely moment for reflection as the team lit candles within the monastery to remember all those who had gone too soon.
Their emotionally charged day was topped off by the warm hospitality received at the local tea house, where the team gathered to recuperate before turning in for the evening, readying themselves for another day of trekking.
High emotions spilled over into the fourth day for the team, as they visited the Tengboche Monastery, high in the Himalayas. Their visit to the monastery was particularly poignant as it coincided with Wave of Light, for Baby Loss Awareness Week. The team took part in a special service led by a lama, taking time to reflect on the significance of their expedition and those who have been affected by the sudden death of a child or young person.
The trekkers took a much-needed rest day, as they prepared for a 3-hour climb the following day, taking time to acclimatise to the altitude. This was also the perfect opportunity for them to soak in the culture and their stunning surroundings before they took on the ultimate challenge of climbing to 5000m the following day.
The sixth day marked a great achievement for the team as they reached 5000m in altitude, during an acclimatisation walk from Dingboche. Despite the tough climb, the team were rewarded with stunning views of the Himalayas from above the cloud line, and the majestic Mount Everest towering above them. Dingboche is the last inhabited stop before the team reaches base camp, with a population of around only 200 people. Temperatures reach a high of 11℃in the summer, and lows of around -15℃ in the Winter months.
Making impressive progress during their first week, the determination and resilience of the team has been put to the test. It’s clear to see that despite the challenges both physically and emotionally, they remain in positive spirits and the camaraderie between them is strong. Taking important moments to reflect on why they are taking on this expedition has been a key driving force in their daily motivation, as well as seeing the generosity of others through donations.
The trekkers are due to reach base camp on the morning of Saturday the 19th (local time), and we will be bringing you updates on our social media channels as and when we receive them.
With the final leg of their journey ahead, the trekkers are preparing themselves for the challenge ahead and the whole 2wish team and wider community remain proud of their hard work and dedication to make a difference to the lives of those who have suffered unimaginable loss.
Find us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn for ‘in-the-moment’ updates, or visit our exclusive Everest Base Camp Expedition page on the website for details on how to donate and support the trekkers.
18 October 2024
