Spirits in base camp are on the mend after the tragic loss we all experienced on April 21. The last two days have been occupied with the mourning of our loss and tending to the injured. In addition, we have been busy gathering witness reports and photographs to file with the Ministry of Tourism, which controls climbing on Mount Everest. Today was a beautiful day and our team's Sherpas entered the Icefall to recover gear and supplies abandoned during the accident. They took the gear to Camp I (at the top of the Icefall) and then headed to Camp II with additional supplies.

After extensive soul searching, thought, and discussion between team members and our Sherpas, the team has decided to continue with the expedition. We continue our venture in memory of our friends and with great hope and determination. Tomorrow, April 24, the team will commence its initial acclimatization plan by climbing thru the Icefall (19,500 ft.). We will spend two nights at Camp I and during that time, make an acclimatization climb to Camp II (21,500 ft.). We may spend a night or two at Camp II, depending on the condition of our team members and the Camp II logistics. We will then descend to base camp for rest and recovery. Although our plans were delayed by a three day storm and the accident, we feel confident that sufficient time remains for proper acclimatization and a summit bid. "Patience and fortitude are key and our strategy is to make haste, slowly".

A FEW WORDS ABOUT OUR LOST:

Lhakpa Tseri Sherpa was 32 years old and he resided in the village of Mende, in the Khumbu Valley. He was married and had three children. Dawa Temba Sherpa was 22 years old and he was loved in the village of Thomo - also in the Khumbu Valley. He too was married and his wife is pregnant with their first child. Lhakpa and Dawa were wonderful men and it's difficult to fathom the grief that their families are experiencing during this time of extreme sorrow.

Padasang Nuru Sherpa and Mingma Tenging Sherpa are both recovering from injuries in base camp. Padasang Nuru's injuries were more significant and his injuries have likely ended his climbing season. He will continue to rest in base camp for a day or two before returning home.

As always, we appreciate your prayers and thoughts . . . especially for our lost and their families.