A Caution Story: Hypocalcemia and Diamox (Acetazolamide)

In 2006 I had a complete thyroidectomy and suffered some parathyroid complications. Read more about my thyroid story HERE. Pea-sized parathyroid glands (two on each side of your thyroid) sit directly adjacent to the two thyroid lobes in your neck. Parathyroid glands produce parathyroid hormone, which regulates calcium levels in the blood. Even small changes … More A Caution Story: Hypocalcemia and Diamox (Acetazolamide)

The 19hr Istanbul Layover

November 24, 2022Start: Kathmandu, Nepal Stop: Istanbul, Turkey It’s a reluctant wake-up since today is the day filled with many goodbyes and the start of a long trip home. There’s breakfast, last minute arranging of luggage, paying the hotel bill, tears. Tiger and driver arrive at 9am so I head back upstairs to get my … More The 19hr Istanbul Layover

Kathmandu: Nimsdai and Narayanhiti Palace

November 21, 2022 After another hearty buffet breakfast, we venture out and point ourselves in the direction of the Marriott Hotel and the Nimsdai Store. This isn’t your usual cultural stop in Kathmandu. Nimsdai Purja first launched onto the international scene with his Netflix film 14 Peaks: Nothing Is Impossible. This film depicts his attempt … More Kathmandu: Nimsdai and Narayanhiti Palace

Day 14: The Awe-Inspiring Khumbu Porters

November 17, 2022Start: Namche Bazaar 3440m (11,284ft)Via: Phakding 2610m (8,561ft)Stop: Lukla 2800m (9,381ft)Distance: 18km (11.2 miles) After the coldness of the past weeks, Namche Bazaar doesn’t feel that cold anymore. It’s almost in the realm of comfortable. Almost. We’re up by 5:30am for a long day of hiking back to Lukla. After a whole group … More Day 14: The Awe-Inspiring Khumbu Porters

Day 13: Passing Tengboche

November 16, 2022Start: Pheriche 4371m (14,340ft)Via: Tengboche 3867m (12,687ft)Stop: Namche Bazaar 3440m (11,284ft)Distance: 20km (12.5 miles) Last night I was all tucked in and asleep by 7:40pm. But descending deep into this valley has its consequences. All that pristine, cold, dense Himalayan air has settled in at Pheriche and it feels like our coldest night … More Day 13: Passing Tengboche