Leeds Metropolitan University

Everest West Ridge 2006

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John Allan

Location

The Two Faces of Base Camp

Time

June 2006

The Two Faces of Base Camp

I am staying at the “Hotel California”. This is one of the better canvas establishments in the camp’s village. This area is bustling and dishevelled.
Tibetan families ply their trade selling shelter and portable oxygen canisters to tourists who may only stay for an hour.

The main attraction constantly changes in appearance keeping the visitors snap-happy. Beyond a vantage point, lies a plateau which is reserved for expeditions.
In stark contrast, this is a tranquil expanse of pebbles and glacial streams that denotes the entrance to adventure. The reality of undertaking is reminded to climbers as they pass an area dedicated to those who have perished.

Later today I trek to advanced base camp. I have acclimatised well only leaving Nepal one week ago. Whilst travelling within diverse communities, I have reflected upon our research.

I believe that in meeting challenges, individuals cannot under-estimate their capacity in tapping into hope. Optimism and communal spirit binds people in the face of severe hardship.

In preparing the climbers, we attempted to focus upon elements of their past to blend it with new encounters. Growth and learning can therefore be realised and shared. Within my imminent meetings, I hope to tap into stories that show such outcomes, despite such a severe set-back.

John Allan is researching psychological resilience with EWR2006