April 17, 2014
This is Bill’s daughter Lisa posting- he is safe at Chinese Base Camp on the north side of Mt Everest but very saddened and upset after hearing of the deadly avalanche on the south side that has killed at least 13 sherpas. It is being reported as the worst-ever recorded disaster on Mt Everest. You can read about the avalanche on Alan Arnett’s blog here as well as many news outlets all over the internet.
My Dad sent me this brief information and said he was in no condition to post an audio report:
Mingma’s father was killed in the avalanche in the Khumbu Icefall
He was a dear old man who served as a cook at Camp 2 for Alpine Ascents
He has a wife and 2 sons, both of whom are high altitude Sherpas Mingma is the oldest son
Mingma is leaving Chinese Base Camp and will return on May 1
Mingma has been my Sherpa and friend for 5 years. We summitted Mt Everest together in 2009. We call each other brothers. He is also close to my entire family
I have met Mingma’s father, mother and brother
Please pray for Mingma, his family and all the other persons affected by this terrible tragedy on Mt. Everest
Kalden, one of our young Sherpas at CBC, just asked to use my sat phone. He found out two of his best friends died in the avalanche. So sad.
Ang Mingma Sherpa is here with me at CBC. He was one of my Sherpas in 2012. Two members of his family died including his nephew.
We will post more as we hear.
Lisa
So glad to hear Bill is safe, but our heart is breaking for the loss of his friends. Our whole Saddleback Kids team is praying. We love you Bill!
So sad to hear. The Sherpa are the unsung heroes of the Himalaya. This has to very devastating to the entire Sherpa people and to Bill who is so close to them.
I know Bill is very careful on the mountain but please Bill, be extra careful.
Glad to hear Bill is safe.
We are sending our prayers to everybody at Mt. Everest.
Sad day for the brave men who do so much for the safety and comfort of those attempting to climb Everest.
Dear Lisa:
I am so happy to hear your Dad is OK. He is a tough guy, and all will be fine, but I know you all hope this is the last of the attempts.
You have to be so proud of him, Lisa, and he would never be happy swinging a golf club ;(
I think of you often, and fondly.
So happy you are OK Bill. We heard the news last nite and started to worry. Lots of positive vibes are being sent to all.
Lisa & Family,
So happy to hear that your father is okay. This is very sad news indeed, prayers for those who perished. Even with this a known risk climbing Everest, it hurts the heart. Hugs to you all.
Bill, I thought of you immediately when I read this morning’s news. Nice to hear that you are safe. My sympathy goes to you and to your friends for this dreadful loss.
I cannot express my sadness as such tragedy. We are praying for all of you.
Praying for you, Mingma and his family, friends and all who are there. My heart goes out to your “Everest family”. May the Lord be with all of you during this tragic time and throughout the rest of your journey. Sending you love and blessings!
Bill: We are so relieved that you are safe, and so saddened to hear about all the others who lost their lives. My heart goes out to their friends and families. You and all the others are in our prayers.
Those poor Sherpas.
Our deep condolences to Mingma, Kalden, you and others who lost friends and loved ones.
Kevin
Thanks for posting this update. I have been trying to find news since late last night and although my condolences go out to the families in mourning, I am glad to hear Bill is safe. Prayers to all who lost loved ones.
Tragedies on Everest are expected and they profoundly effect the entire community of hikers and support personnel–a very emotional and sad April on Mt. EVEREST. Blessings to all.
Rick
My deepest sympathies to all the friends and Families of the Sherpas. What a tragedy. Such a terrible way to start the climbing season…
Bill, this new is so sad. I have always had the utmost respect for the Sherpas that hold the lives of all the Everest climbers in their hands. My deepest sympathy for the loss of Mingma’s father and all the other Sherpas and their families. Such a tragedy.
Hi Mr. Burke,
I heard about the avalanche on NPR today, and I am just so happy to hear you are safe! I am very sorry for the loss of Mingma’s father, as well as the other Sherpas and climbers. I’m thinking of you, and wishing you the best of luck with the rest of your climb!
love,
Tricia
So glad to hear Bill is safe. When I saw the report that was absolutely my first thought. I am also very saddened for the loss of life and Bill’s friends. Please pass on my good wishes and thoughts and prayers for everyone.
Best
Alan
It breaks my heart too, to hear of the loss of so many of the local Sherpas. No one can do it without them. Praying for Bill and his teams safe ascent and return.
Bill: Please pass on my condolences to Mingma. His dad helped bandage my arm at Camp 2 in 2011 and gave me comfort for the disruption in my climb. The death of these “friends of the rope” is too tragic for words.
I’m so thankful that Bill is safe but my heart breaks as I know how much he must be grieving for the loss of so many. Prayers will continue for all.
Thanks for the lesson in pop psychology, “Joe Tasker.” The poorest of taste to use this forum as a pulpit for your flawed and simplistic analysis.
Deepest condolences to your friends, Bill. Take care.
Bill,
I am so glad to hear you are okay and incredibly sad to hear about the loss of so many Sherpas/friends of yours. Prayers sent your way to the Everest community. Safe safe on the mountain , we are cheering for you:) much love