(Courtesy of Alan Arnette - AlanArnette.com) Ger is back in Skardu and appears to be as
well as can be expected. He required ten stiches for his head injury
but is conscious and apparently stable.
He was evacuated via helicopter from K2
basecamp Monday morning to the hospital in Skardu. Mick Murphy was with
him the entire time and played a key role in providing aid as well as
coordinating communications. Skardu is a medium-sized city so it has an
above-average hospital for northern Pakistan. It is also home for a
large military base, so Ger probably has better medial care than one
would expect for this part of the world. FTA worked throughout the night with ATP to bring in the helicopter
which was pre-arranged back in April in case of an emergency such as
this. It was fortunate that the weather cooperated thus avoiding any
delays in getting Ger out. Thankfully Ger was wearing his helmet which absolutely prevented
more serious injury. He is currently staying overnight in the hospital.
He will be flying home as soon as he is ready. All family members were
kept informed and are obviously relieved. Mountaineering has its risk and this was one of those things that
happen. In spite of all the training, experience and precautions,
accidents happen. My hat is off to Bango, Mick, FTA and ATP for their
professialism in handling this situation. As for the rest of the
remaining climbers, only Wilco, Josette (?) and Joelle, I believe; I
assume they will make their final attempt this week. I am sure Wilco's
site will be updated soon. On a personal note, I am very thankful Ger will be OK. He is a wonderful person with a great sense of humor. Take care Lad. Alan
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