Wicked night here at Camp 4
A massive windstorm tore through with gusts over 45 knots, violently shaking our tent from all sides. It felt like the whole thing might lift off. The temperature outside plummeted to -40°C — it reminded me of Antarctica.
Today, we got some much-needed rest while the wind continued to batter the tents, still gusting up to 45 mph. It's 4:30 p.m. now, and I’m chugging electrolytes. When I run out, my hands start to cramp badly. I had to down the last of my supply just to unstick my fingers. Thankfully, my Sherpa team helped locate enough to get me through tomorrow and the next day. That was a lucky break — extra supplies are extremely limited up here at Camp 4.
Between sips of water, I’m going through all my gear, double-checking every item. Once we leave this camp, that’s it — no turning back.
I feel terrible for Matt, my tentmate. He was here three years ago and had to abandon his climb when both he and his Sherpa got sick between Camps 3 and 4. Since arriving on April 11, he’s been one of the strongest climbers in the group. But yesterday, he didn’t wear his sunglasses or goggles — even after a few reminders from Ryan, our guide. It was overcast, and it seemed like a borderline call, but by the time he got back to the tent, his eyes were burning. He thought it was just sunscreen, but Ryan later diagnosed him with snow blindness — burned retinas. It takes days to recover. He now has to descend back to C3, then C2, C1, and ultimately Everest Base Camp.
Two of our Sherpas are dealing with the same condition. It really drives home how razor-thin the margin of error is up here. One small mistake, and your summit chances are gone.
I’m being extremely cautious. Hydrating constantly. I’ve already consumed five liters today, with three more to go. I’m peeing every 45 minutes, but after talking to eight people who’ve summited, this is the formula: dial in your systems and be fully prepared when it’s time to move. We will be leaving tonight for the summit.
I am climbing from Camp 4 to the Summit and thinking about Hopecam Child Davian. Davian appreciates the internet access Hopecam provides during long hospital stays and hospital visits - it helps him stay connected. Davian’s resilience and patience in overcoming challenges make everyone proud of him, and Hopecam has created a happy place for him—it allows him not to feel isolated and to be more a part of his normal life.
Davian enjoys watching Disney movies with his family, has loved art and coloring since he was 11 months old, and loves teddy bears - they are his spirit animal. He dreams of becoming an artist, fashion designer, tennis player, or architect.
His message to me was “Thanks, Mr. Len, for all you do for “us kids.” Please be careful on Mount Everest. Here is a quote I want to share with you: “Faith is the key that opens those mountains and removes them when needed.” - Davian
As I make this final push up the mountain, Davian, you’ll be with me. Your strength, your resilience, and everything you’re overcoming will drive me to the top.