Thursday, April 17, 2014

Tragedy on the mountain

As some of you have heard by now, there was a large avalanche in the icefall today. It came down off the left shoulder of Everest just as we were entering the "football" field, which is just below camp one. Marcus and I were each pushed down behind large blocks of ice by our Sherpas which shielded us from the brunt. These guys are truly amazing!  They saved our lives! We are shaken but ok. Unfortunately there are some still up there who were not so lucky today. As I write this I feel emotional and don't know what to say. One thought is that we were SO lucky! But the overwhelming feelings are for the poor families of the people that didn't make it. I'm so near to this situation right now that I can't think straight. Of course we are all asking ourselves that serious question of "why are we here??" I don't want to try to answer that question in this state of mind but it is the big question floating over our whole camp today.
I'll close with these thoughts; I feel so grateful! I do know this is part of climbing these big mountains and I'm willing to accept the risk. But I do love and appreciate my family and friends more than this adventure. I have a wonderful life and I'm SO lucky today. If I didn't have all of you in my life none of this would matter. I just wanted you all to know what happened and that I'm ok. Thank you for being part of my life.
As a buddy of mine reminded me in times like this.."Stay calm, say a prayer, move forward."
Peace and Love, Jon

21 comments:

  1. Thank you for giving us more details. You have wonderful Sherpas. I hope they are all ok too. I feel very bad for your climbing friends who are still missing. I will pray for you and Marcus to be at peace and move forward. Denise Benguerel

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  2. Glad you all are safe! Angel and I are sending prayers for continued safe climbing.

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  3. Glad to hear You're safe, keep it that way, my thoughts are with you

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  4. Jon, so glad to hear you are safe. Been praying for your safety, strength and peace while you take this journey to the top. Keep the faith buddy.

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  5. Jon - very good to hear that you and Marcus are safe. I'm thankful you are ok and that you have wise sherpas. My best thoughts are with you as you go forward with your journey. Edward

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  6. We were really worried when we saw the news about the avalanche. So relieved you guys are safe. Sounds like you are in a bit of shock still - which is only natural.... Let your mind clear and follow your instincts about next steps. Love, Bud & Linda

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  7. So glad you are safe buddy! Be smart, be safe and be strong!

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  8. Jonny, I was so concerned when I heard about the avalanche this morning....Now so relieved to hear you are okay. Please thank your amazing Sherpas on behalf of all of us! You are more than lucky, you are truly BLESSED. So many of my friends are joining me in praying for your strength, safety, well-being, and mostly your peace in this climb. Please assure your Sherpas, Marcus, and the rest of your group that we hold them in prayer, too. We are following you each day and feel privileged to be with you in spirit. Love and peace, Aunt Zoe Ann

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  9. Jonny Aunt Zoe Ann said everything I have wanted to say. You have many angels watching over you and protecting you. We are with you in heart & spirit. Be strong little brother. Everything is okay and in His hands. I love you so much and am with you every second. love, Vicky

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  10. Much relieved you and Marcus are safe as well as most of IMG. I understand there was a minor injury of one of your Sherpa. We all like your posts, both you and Susan. All the best to you on this Good Friday and Easter weekend. Prayers for all. Mike

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  11. What a heart-felt message and thank God you are safe. I keep thinking this might be your last climb but I know these adventures fuel you in ways many wouldn't understand. I do know that most of us live our lives in fear of one thing or another and that there is so much inside of each of us that would love to come out if we weren't so fearful of trusting rather than playing it safe and holding onto security. I admire you for embracing your passion and living the life you not only desire but deserve. The only comfort for the family members of those who did not make it is that they too, were living their passion. My thoughts, my heart and my love are with you. Becki

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  12. Jon, what a blessing. we are all thankful for your safety and send continued prayers and well wishes for your safety and those with you. So sorry for the lost lives. ~~~Aunt Tina and kids

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  13. Our love and thoughts and wishes are with you. Take care.

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  14. Praying for you all. Your family and friends support you Jon.

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  15. I just about had a heart attack last night when I got a text from Susan and the first word my eyes zoned in on was "avalanche". Quickly noticed that it started with "Dad is ok" and was more than relieved. I'm happy to hear you have amazing Sherpa with you. Love ya dad, be safe.

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  16. I was really worried when I saw on CNN about the avalanche. I was so relieved after talking to Susan that you are safe. My thoughts are with you as you trek up the mountain, be safe my friend....Always, Doug!

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  17. Glad you are safe, Jon! Wishing you well and sorry for the other friends and families that didn't make it. Aram Sohigian

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  18. Jon - When I heard of the avalanche, I immediately thought about you and your journey. We are so thankful that you are safe but very sorry for the lives lost. Take care my friend. ~ Denise Watson Shannon

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  19. Good Morning,

    My name is Maria Paronich and I am a Desk Assistant for Fox News Channel. All of us here at Fox are relieved to know that you are okay. We are interested in telling your story on air. With your permission, may we please use information and pictures that appear here on your blog? If you can grant us permission, please email us at desk@foxnews.com. Thank you!

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  20. My family and I are so glad you are okay!! You're last quote sums it up perfectly. I've been taught to live by that and it has helped me to get through anything. I am glad you have those words to help guide you. Good luck and you are in my thoughts and prayers! You are such an inspiration.
    Jordan Matteri

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