Hello Mountainzoners,
It has come to my attention that our illustrious guide staff has been remiss in their cybercasting duties, and that they failed to report the departure of Alex Bright from the expedition in a timely manner. I know a lot of you out there have been following Alex's progress on the mountain and rooting for her success, and it is a disappointment to a lot of us that she has decided to call it quits.
Alex came to realize what a difficult task it is to climb a mountain like Everest, and how physically demanding it is just to climb up through the Icefall to Camp I. There is a lot of talk these days about being able to pay your money and "buy your way to the summit," but Alex would be the first to tell you that just isn't true. This mountain demands a high level of physical and technical skill to even get started above Base Camp.
Alex was able to climb successfully through the Icefall, but realized that the effort needed to continue the climb is enormous. So she has decided to abandon this adventure, and get on with new adventures in her life. Of course we all wish her well in her future undertakings, and I for one will miss having her female companionship on the expedition. Now I'll really have to get out the whip and chair to keep these guys in line.
So, Alex, here's a big hug and congratulations for the success you did have on this mountain. It takes a lot of courage to start an adventure like this, and just as much to know when to end it.
Ellie Henke,
Base Camp Manager
