EVEREST LIVE

May 5, 2001

From: Michael O'Donnell

The team returned to base camp from a much-needed rest in the village of Dinboche at 14,000 feet. The team is in high spirits. Chris, Mike Didrik, Jeff and Eric passed the time with some audacious ice bouldering in the icefall. In the midst of this flurry of activity P.V's family arrived in basecamp safely. Adam, Sarah and Xylia are in great spirits and were very happy to be united with P.V. Because Adam is a quadraplegic, it was necessary to have three porters carry him in a basket and via tump-line from Lucla to base camp. The happy family plans to spend 2-3 days together as the expedition plans it's summit push. As far as I'm concerned, I am long past ready for the summit push. Even my Irish heritage is being tested by the potato diet/war we find ourselves in. My tent seems to be getting smaller and smaller as the waiting drags on. I have waited thirty years for the day to come. I hope it comes soon.

The Sherpa's are preparing Camp 4 at the South Col for us and are pushing themselves beyond even their limits. They continue to amaze me