Everest South Side Expedition: American Commemorative Expedition

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Leaving Kathmandu! June 5, 2003

Dodging a thunder and lightening storm which signals the beginning of monsoon, our expedition helicopter was able to fly from Shangboche and land in Kathmandu late on the evening of June 4. On board were all of the Sherpas who were part of the team, as well as the team and personal equipment of the climbing members.

Bob Hoffman had been advised by the CIWEC Clinic yesterday that it was mandatory he leave Kathmandu and return to a hospital in the United States for treatment of his frostbite. It just wasn’t getting better here.

Bob feel sorry that he is unable to celebrate the return of the Sherpas to Kathmandu in the traditional after-climb party. With the help of team member Tom Burch, the Sherpas and Wilderness Experience staff, he was able to get the important paperwork, his personal equipment and expedition computers from the duffle bags that were brought in last night, so he will be able to finish some of the administrative duties from home.

So we are headed home today! More summit stories and photos will be shared here on the website in the days to come. Thanks for following along.-Sue Hoffman

To e-mail Bob

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