A "FIFTH" OF WHITNEY SUMMIT

Mt. Whitney dayhike for September 12, 2006
Distance: 22 miles
Start: 12:40 a.m.
Summit: 9:10 a.m. (20 minute summit stay)
Finish: 3:51 p.m.
Total: 15 hours 11 minutes

Horacio (co-worker for the Whitney hike on 08/10/06) and I hit the trail and reached the lofty summit of Mecca West. His first summit on his second attempt and my fifth summit.

12:40 a.m.: Start from the old stock trail with its 28 switchbacks. I decide to count switchbacks along certain portions of the trail to keep my mind busy. It was agreed that we keep the conversation to a minimum while making the ascent. Conservation of energy.

1:03 a.m.: John Muir Wilderness sign on the Mt. Whitney Trail. There are 26 switchbacks from the JMW sign to the log crossing. Switchback #11 is the longest of them. We encounter two mule deer on switchback #18. Startled the bejeezus out of us as we did to them.

2:07 a.m.: The log crossing. Add one more switchback for a total of 27. We bump into a lone female backpacker at the other end of the crossing. Later found out that she was the disoriented hiker who was wandering around the John Muir Wilderness for 20 hours. We just exchanged greetings and went about our merry ways. She apparently suffered from knee problems and made it out safely to Whitney Portal.

2:15 a.m.: The Whitney Zone. Still. The waning gibbous moon casts its glow all around us. We rest on Lawrence Murphy Rock adjacent to the Whitney Zone. We are making excellent progress on the trail. We are going at a comfortable pace.

2:36 a.m.: Outpost Camp. I count 18 switchbacks from the Whitney Zone to Outpost Camp. Big Horn Park is to the right of us as we make our way to the camp area. There are a couple of tents off to either side of us as we make our way. We rock hop the stream crossing and make our way up another series of switchbacks. I do not bother to count. Maybe on the way down. Oftentimes, I lose sight of the trail only to recollect my thoughts and readjust my bearings to get me back on the trail. Hikers over the years have erected cairns to point the way and some have outlined the trail with carefully placed rocks to show the way.

4:00 a.m.: Trailside Meadows. No winter-like wind gusts like last time on August 10. Very calm. I keep thinking to myself if this is the way it is going to be all the way to the top. I am hoping such is the case.

4:56 a.m.: Trail Camp. The air is still. No wind. We rest on a rock to rest before the push up the 99 switchbacks.

5:10 a.m.: We head up the 99 switchbacks. I stop to fill up my Nalgene bottle at the spring on one of the switchbacks. Water is icy cold and refreshing. No need for filtration at this spring. It comes from the snowmelt. This water eventually flows into the lake adjacent to Trail Camp known to other Whitney hikers as the "Sierra Sewer."

5:58 a.m.: Cables. The melting snow has now turn to ice as the sun is now lower in the horizon. Water is frozen making the trail hazardous. There is about a boot-width of clear trail close to the cables. One misstep, one lapse of concentration, or one misplaced trekking pole means sliding down 800 foot slab of granite.

6:34 a.m.: Sunrise. What a sight to behold as the Sierra Nevada is awaken by the alpenglow. I can imagine how John Muir felt when he first trekked in this area. The wind starts to blow.

6:57 a.m.: Trail Crest. The last switchback is free and clear of any snow. The wind is coming from the east and is cold. We head down the MWT past the Trail Crest sign for shelter from the wind. There is an eerie dead silence, but the views were spectacular. Two boulders have fallen across the John Muir Trail since the last hike on August 10. We hook up with 8 other hikers on the John Muir Trail. It was their first hike for all of them. I give them advice on breathing and "breaking it down" meaning every 200 steeps, stop, rest, recover, continue. One hiker is complaining of hoarseness. He is chewing tobacco. Enough said. I offer him some Lifesaver candy. He turns down my request. The winds are gusty at the "windows." Horacio mentions his fingers are numb. I suggest to him that when we stop, he puts his gloved hands in his vest pockets. As we near Mt. Whitney, the wind is coming from the west. The winds are coming around Mt. Whitney from the Mountaineer's Route and hooking up with the winds from the east via the "windows" making the last mile to the summit very windy and cold. The snow "wedge" near the summit no longer exists.

9:10 a.m.: Summit. The wind is blowing hard from the west. Horacio's watch said the temperature was 43°, but I imagine the wind chill to be hovering around freezing. I imagine the gusts to be between 20-25 miles per hour. Could have been 30 mph for all I know. There are 15 people at the summit. All first-timers. Anne, who was on my team in August and failed due to acute mountain sickness, reached the summit with another group. Her good friend Kristan, who I call Anne's "good luck charm," reached the summit as well. Both opted for the overnight trek. I am happy for Anne since this was her third attempt. She finally made it and deservedly so. After hiking to the tops of San Jacinto, San Antonio, and San Gorgonio, she finally did it. We take our pictures at the trail sign and at the summit marker. We also take pictures of us while signing in the summit log. I leave behind a pamphlet from Patty Rambert's memorial service as well as a Team In Training button.


9:30 a.m.: Down we go. The "getting down is mandatory" part begins. Horacio complaining of headaches. Acute mountain sickness. I am feeling no ill-effects of AMS.

11:08 a.m.: Trail Crest. I never liked the half-mile from the junction of the JMT to TC. I am sure all Whitney hikers can attest to that! It seems to get steeper every time I go.

12:32 p.m.: Done with the 99 switchbacks. There is a rock slide at the cables. I dive into the wall to avoid falling debris only to find myself landing on the ice and sliding to the edge. Not a very wise decision on my part, but there wasn't any other option. Had I gone over the edge, I would have grabbed the cables thus preventing a very long "slide for life." I proceed down to the end of the cables and turn around to check on Horacio. I was looking up to see if there was a hiker up higher on the switchbacks causing the debris to fall. There wasn't one. Horacio makes it past the cables without incident. There is a hiker behind him and he is hit on his pack by a large chunk of falling debris. I ask if he is okay and he said yes. A nanosecond earlier and he would have been knocked unconscious and possibly killed. Talk about a close call. His two hiking buddies also witnessed the event.

12:37 p.m.: Trail Camp. We are halfway there. The toughest six miles are yet to come, because you can see the trail below in front of you and every step doesn't seem like you are getting any closer. I take this time to take off some gear to put in my pack and I apply sunscreen to my neck and face. I am still wearing my lower black thermals and a long-sleeved Arcteryx shirt. Although a bit warm, I am still comfortable. After all, only six more miles!

1:17 p.m.: Trailside Meadows. Horacio's feet and legs are hurting. I am holding up well. My back was twinging a little, but there was no cause for concern. I spot a marmot. It would be the only marmot I would see along the entire trail. We meet several of backpackers heading up the trail. They ask how far it is to Trail Camp and I tell them it is another mile. They heave a sigh and continue to push on. Between Trailside Meadows and Mirror Lake, another hiker passed us by on his descent and then stopped to ask us about our start time and when we reached the summit. We told him. Then this gentlemen proceeds to boast of his start time of 3:00 a.m. and reaching the summit at 10:00 a.m. Okay, so you reach the summit in 7 hours, so what? I know of someone who dayhikes the Mt. Whitney Trail twice in one day, can get to the top in 3 hours and 42 minutes, comes back down, rests for 30 minutes to change his socks, started hiking when he was 50, has reached the summit 50 plus times since then, is probably over 60-years-old, rides a stationary bike to train for Whitney, carries a Nalgene bottle (no filter) with Gookinade, doesn't carry a pack and doesn't run during the entire time. If there is anyone to boast or brag, it would be Jack N. from San Diego.

2:15 p.m.: Outpost Camp. Another 3.8 miles to go. It is warm. Too warm. There is hardly any wind blowing at this point. Our hopes were to have a nice breeze to cool us off as we made our descent. Such was not the case. I can feel the sun's radiation off the granite. I apply more sunscreen.

2:41 p.m.: Leave the Whitney Zone. The last 2.8 miles and 54 switchbacks await us. Again, there is no cool breeze. Just dead air. I ponder whether to head down the Mt. Whitney Trail to the trailhead or just head down the old stock trail. Went down the stock trail.

3:51 p.m.: Finish. Fifteen hours and 11 minutes on the trail. We never saw one ranger. We pass by the Whitney Portal Store

Gear: CamelBak Commander backpack with one Nalgene bottle, balaclava, sunglasses, Buff headband, Mountain Hardwear Dome Perignon hat, The North Face Paramount convertible pants, Denali vest and Pamir Windstopper gloves, Arcteryx long-sleeve, REI Lightweight MTS Long-Sleeve Zip-T, Marmot PreCip shells and DriClime jacket, REI long underwear, Ace knee braces, Montrail Comp hiking boots, Smartwool merino wool socks, Leki Super Makalu Ergo SLS trekking poles, duct tape, lip balm, sunscreen, M&M peanuts, Gookinade.

Notes: We came prepared. Once before, never again. Horacio packed only 2 liters of water for the entire trip. I believe this was the cause of his headaches on the descent due to the lack of hydration. The windy conditions were similar to my first Whitney summit in August 2004. The North Face Denali vest was instrumental in keeping me warm during the ascent up the 99s to the summit and back to Trail Crest. Snacking on grapes is highly recommended while acclimatizing for hydration and nutrients. Oranges are good, too. M&M peanuts are a lot better than mini Snickers for snacking on the trail. As they used to say, "Melts in your mouth, not in your hands." I can add to that: "...not in your backpack or shirt or pants pockets..." A teaspoonful of Gookinade in a liter of water makes a great pick-me-up after a grueling 22 miles on the trail. Lifesaver candy is great for the last 2.5 miles to the summit. You can also substitute lemon drops. THERE ARE A LOT OF SWITCHBACKS! Someone said there was 150. Wrong! I think the number is OVER to 200 if you also consider the old stock trail switchbacks.


I dedicated the hike to Patty Rambert who tragically lost her life on a mountaineering adventure on May 31, 2006 (see the June 16, 2006 post). I also dedicated this hike to all of my friends who reached the summit of Whitney with or without me over the course of the years: Joe, Mike B., Kandy, Dave and Jane, Erin, Jonathan, Tonya, Adrienne, Joe McK, Francisco. Horacio is the latest addition! I hope to add to this list. All of you done did good!

Many thanks this year to Garv and Heather and her friend Cathy; Mountain Joe; Mike B.; Kandy; Dave and Jane; Erin; Horacio and Kelly; Kindra; Amy M.; Michael B., Anne and Kristan; Dawn; members of my "family;" my doctors Dr. John S., Dr. Maurice C., and Dr. Farzad M.; the crew at the Whitney Portal Store, the staff at Dow Villa Motel, Miller's Towing, Pizza Factory, High Sierra Cafe, Totem Cafe, Pearsonville Shell, REI, Adventure 16 and last but not least the spirit of Danu Sherpa! It sure was a blast trekking up to the summits of San Gorgonio, San Jacinto, San Antonio, Mt. Wilson, Santiago Peak, Baden-Powell and the "little" walks in Crystal Cove State Park to prepare for "Mecca West."


I am contemplating a return to Mt. Whitney in mid-October. Should be some snow on the ground by then and permits shouldn't be a problem to obtain! Besides, who couldn't resist an order of Whitney Portal Fries to close out the 2006 hiking season!

MT. WHITNEY...AGAIN

Heading up the Mt. Whitney again for the second time this year.

I was fortunate enough to secure a campsite at Whitney Portal and thanks to TeamBruin I was able to secure a permit for Tuesday, September 12.

I called the Reservation Line on Wednesday, September 6 and asked about any permit availability. Fortunately there were ONLY 2 for September 12 and NONE for September 11. A lot of hikers I hear ask for that day in remembrance of the terrorist attack in 2001.



Horacio and I will drive up to Lone Pine on Sunday, August 10, to campsite #37 at the Whitney Portal Family Campgrounds.

TEAM DANCES WITH COYOTES

Congratulations to Kandy and Team Dances With Coyotes (daughter Ashley and trail buddy Michael) on their successful summit of Mt. Whitney on August 15. It took them an 14 hours to do the 22 mile hike. Great job!


The following is a trip report from Kandy:

I cannot even describe how awesome Tuesday was. In summary . . .

12:25 am - on the trail. Temperature relatively mild compared to the howling winds and cold of last year. One other gentleman hiker slightly ahead of us. We immediately run into a woman coming down with a pack on her back and carrying a bear cannister. She didn't seem very happy and wasn't interested in talking to us . . .hope this isn't a bad omen.

1:25 am - the log bridge.

3:30 am - Trail Camp - I forgot to note times at the other notable spots like Outpost Camp. I was so focused on the hike itself. There was one tent visable off the trail. Somewhere just before Outpost, we passed two women who were also going up . . . and struggling. Somewhere past Outpost, we passed the gentleman we saw in the parking lot. He tried to keep up but we lost him in the dark.

The 20 minute stay at Trail Camp was miserable. The temperatures dropped miserably and the wind was blowing. Michael struggled some the last 30 minutes or so before camp, and had started to panic about the cold. Once he ate and we stuck "Heat Factory" packs all over our bodies (a life saver, those little things are!), he regrouped and we were off. Our lone hiker joined us for a bit while we were resting, and started up before us, but we quickly overtook him. The horizon started turning shades of orange and red about 1/2 way up the switchbacks and we were soon able to turn off our headlamps. We hit patches of ice which surprised me. I guess it really was cold!

I have no idea when we got to Trail Crest. The sun was just starting to paint the peaks. Unlike you, there was absolutely no wind. Cold though. I had nightmares about Trail Crest in what little sleep I got Monday night, but it wasn't as bad as I had envisioned. It really could have been worse, right? At some point in time, Michael pointed out the hut. I was immediately ecstatic that it was in sight, yet at the same time it looked soooooooooooooooooooooooo FARAWAY! Right after that, I started getting very emotional as there was no doubt that I was going to summit. Ashley turned around and I'm blubbering away that we were going to make it. Collected myself and marched on. Was absolutely amazed that while I wasn't jogging up, the altitude really didn't seem to be a problem. No problems breathing, no headache, no naseua. Michael & Ashley both said they were a bit lightheaded, but I was too pumped to feel anything but euphoria!
7:30 am - Team Dances with Coyotes planted their feet on the summit. I immediately started dancing and screaming - scared the weeby-jeebies out of the 6 people already on the summit. It all seemed so surreal, especially since I didn't really feel all that tired. Cold at the top, but who noticed? I was too busy talking a mile a minute and taking pictures. We savored our triumph for about an hour and since no one was serving coffee, decided to start the second half of the hike. And that's when the misery set in.

My headache started before heading down the switchbacks, but it was managable with Advil. I was a bit apprehensive about going down the switchbacks, as downhill is problematic with my knee (I put my brace on before heading back down which helps). I have since decided that the switchbacks are best done in the dark . . .whether going up OR down. Then you cannot see that no matter how many steps you take, you are never, ever going to get to the end. EVER!

Since the ascent was in the dark, seeing the trail in the daylight was nice, but it also kept prompting me to say "we climbed up THAT?" Darkness was my friend . . .

The rest of the descent was uneventful but also never-ending. We left Trail Camp at 11:45 am. I was so prepared for a struggle going up and never really concentrated on going down. The final two miles past Lone Pine Lake were the longest and I was getting really crabby. My feet were throbbing. My legs ached. Even accused the good Lord of moving the parking lot. A group of strangers were standing at the "launching pad" as we crawled through at 2:30 pm and suddenly the pain went away and I started a-hollering and a-hooting. They all joined in and started applauding when they found out it was a one-dayer . . . a perfect end!

Your words of wisdom were a big part of our success. I still have a copy of the first e-mail you sent to me after I posted "Do you think I can do it?" Thank you so much for everything!

TEAM BRUIN

Congratulations to Team Bruin on their successful summit of Mt. Whitney.

Danu Sherpa is very proud of both of you.

The following is a trip report:

Sorry for the long post, but it was an amazing day and we had a blast. 9 1/2 hours up and 5 down, with almost an hour and a half on the summit. Yeah, that's WAY too long up top, but we were feeling great.

After all was said and done, we experienced no nausea, no headaches, and no significant aches or pains. The day before the hike, I was fortunate to speak with Doug Thompson about the current trail conditions, recommended departure times, recent rescues, etc. What a valuable source of information that guy is ... hello and thanks again for your time, Doug.

The one bit of advice Doug offered was to start no earlier than 2:00 a.m., in light of the recent winds and cold temps up there. BruinJane and I had planned to start earlier than that, but opted for 2:30 a.m.

Acclimation: Arrived at the Portal on Tuesday, 8/8 for 2 1/2 days of pre-hike acclimatizing. On 8/9, we met up with Gary and his crew of seven for a quick trip up and over to the 10,000' Horseshoe Meadows. I absolutely believe that these pre-hike days at altitude were keys to our successful summit.

The Hike: Conditions at 2:30 a.m. couldn't have been better -- about 50F and slightly breezy. At the ends of their hikes the day before, RunRJoe and Gary reported very cold and windy trail conditions (thanks again for stopping by, Danu), so additional fleeces went into our packs. Just goes to show you that each day up there can be very, very different. Headlamps illuminated our path and the 92% full-moon illuminated the surroundings. The outer layers were shed by about Lone Pine Lake. By Trailside Meadow, they were back on. Better to stay warm than to try to get warm once cold.

We hit Trail Camp about daybreak and were surprised to run into Two-In-One-Day-Jack Northup (WHTNY N1) for THE SECOND TIME that day -- earlier Jack had passed us around Lone Pine Lake while on his first descent. (Enjoyed meeting and talking with you, Jack -- good luck to your ball team this year.) A short rest and many pictures of the alpenglow later, we pushed up the Switchbacks and reached Trail Crest about 10:00 a.m.

Without wind to worry about, the Windows are actually great photo ops. The trail is level and comfortably wide at those spots, and first-timers shouldn't be concerned -- BruinJane and I both thought that some other portions of the Whitney trail, as well as portions of Baldy's Devil's Backbone, provided tighter and more precipitous encounters which warranted greater attention.

Ran into Jack again at this point. Descent #2 for him. Darn that guy.

Signed the register about noon, with a special nod to Danu (couldn't have done it without you, Sherp) and to 67Brickie (thanks for the push, Brick). Up top we were feeling surprisingly good.

Took lots of pictures. Met and visited with Ranger Mark from Sequoia (thanks for taking some pics, Mark -- yours are on their way). Had a bite to eat. Called our respective fathers (yes, Verizon came through). It was a great experience.

The descent was safe and uneventful -- exactly what we were hoping for. No knee pain, whatsoever. We were shocked. Met up with our good friends Jimbo and Adele at the Portal Store for the best burgers, fries, and beers imaginable.

Food/Drink: We each started with full 100 oz. insulated bladders, and two empty Nalgenes. Just to be safe, I filled my Nalgenes on the way up the Switchbacks at the top of the "spring", which to me appears more like a melting snow bank. Despite having a filter in my pack, I took BobR's and others' advice and filled up unfiltered, straight from the source. Almost a week later, we're not experiencing any ill effects. We didn't hit these Nalgenes until the Switchbacks on our way down. Jane's two Nalgenes remained empty throughout the hike. As for food, on the trail we snacked periodically on GU, mini-Snickers pieces, PowerBars, and different trail mixes. At the summit, Jane ate her PB&J bagel.

Training: Started in March, and included several weekend hikes to altitude up Southern California peaks (Mt. Wilson, Mt. Lowe, Baldy via Village, Gorgonio via Vivian Creek, San Jacinto), many with Gary providing the necessary leadership, motivation, and descriptions of previous Whitney summits. Mid-week, we did countless 5-milers up to our local Henninger Flats and Echo Mountain. As has been stated by others many times, there's no better prep than hitting the trails, if for no other reason than getting used to the "down."

Observations/First-Timer Tips: Trail conditions. I was very impressed with how well maintained and clean it was, considering the pressure. Hat's off to those responsible for its maintenance and repair. Forest service members and volunteers (like GregF) should be commended. Cudos, big time.

Footwear: Despite a lot of recent discussion on the Board about this issue, I couldn't decide between using my trailrunners or traditional hiking boots. I decided to go with my mid-height Merrells instead of my Zamberlans. When I go again, I'm going with the Zamberlans. While the trailrunner-type Merrells worked just fine going up, the mid-trail rocks could be felt through the soles coming down -- no big deal, but an unwanted nuisance. Perhaps sole inserts would've helped.

Light gloves: Add 'em to your pack. With even the slightest early morning breeze up there, you'll be glad to have them.

Binoculars: Leave 'em campside. Unused added weight.

The Switchbacks: There are 99 and not 97. Those two near the bottom have enough of a change of direction where they should count. Just my opinion.

WAG bags: Are no big deal. 'Nuf said.

Backpacks: Our new Osprey Packs were incredibly comfortable and our backs stayed cool. Glad we had them. The waist belt pockets made for easy access to our food, lip balm, etc. And, no, I'm not affiliated with Osprey.

One last comment of appreciation to Doug, Earlene, and the Portal crew for their welcoming nature and obvious dedication to making the Whitney experience the best possible, especially for us first-timers. Thanks again.

GRAND SLAM

Front row: Me, Erin, Horacio

Back row: Kelly, Greg, Garv, Anne

Not pictured: Amy

Mt Whitney.

We did it. At least two of us anyways. Erin and I "bagged" Mecca West at 10:23 a.m. on Thursday, August 10, 2006. The 22-mile hike took us 17 hours and 5 minutes to complete.

Thanks to my digital recorder, I was able to recount the day's events. Here is the trip report:

12:03 a.m.: All eight of us embark to the summit via the old stock trail. The skies are clear and the moon is at 97% illumination. Confidence is high. Garv is point. I am sweep.

12:25 a.m.: We reach the John Muir Wilderness sign. I have everyone turn off their headlamps to see the world around them as John Muir himself would have seen it.

12:43 a.m.: Greg drops from the hike. A very wise decision on his part. He was starting to slow down due to the exertion and altitude. I ask him if he were okay to find his way back. He nods in agreement. There are now seven of us.

1:32 a.m.: We reach the log crossing. Everyone makes it across safely without incident. There is a group of four hikers blocking the other side. They are "asked" to move aside to make way. That is no place to muster when you have seven eager hikers wanting to pass through.

1:40 a.m.: We enter the Whitney Zone. I point out "Bed Rock" that Lawrence Murphy slept and snored on back on August 6, 2004.

2:24 a.m.: We reach Outpost Camp.

4:35 a.m.: The winds are blowing as we near Trailside Meadows. My eyes water. I start to yawn. I feel disoriented. I want to lie down and sleep. We stop to top off our water supplies in our Camelbak bladders. The water is numbing cold.

5:15 a.m.: We reach Trail Camp. The exposed camp is windy and cold. Gusts are 25 mph. Windchill hovering near 30°. We are all not feeling well. We huddle against a rock as a windbreaker. Kelly is not feeling well. Horacio and Kelly decide to turn back. I can see in Horacio's eyes that he did not want to abort. He had no other choice. He did extremely well up to this point. I can sense the disappointment and frustration in his eyes. The team huddles close together to stay warm. I take out my space blanket and put it over Garv, Amy, Anne and Erin. I give Anne my Marmot Dri-Clime jacket to keep warm. I place their packs at their feet to shield from the cold wind. We anxiously wait for the sunrise to provide some sort of comfort. All of us are ill-prepared for the unusual weather conditions. I have a long-sleeved t-shirt, a short-sleeved t-shirt, a shirt, jacket, and balaclava. The key articles of clothing I am missing are my upper and lower shells and fleece jacket of which I took all out of my pack the night before to save weight. Bad decision on my part. I feel nauseous. I move away from the huddle to avoid vomiting on them. I decide to keep moving around. I start to feel better. I am constantly thinking of a way to keep moving to the summit. I am trying to find a way to motivate the group to keep pushing. I do not have any ideas or suggestions. I scamper along the rocks trying to find a solution. My thoughts turn negative. Now what do we do?

6:04 a.m.: The sun rises above the White Mountains. The alpenglow is something to behold. Erin gets up to take the early morning photos. I take a few of my own. I am reminded of George Harrison's song, "Here Comes the Sun."

6:10 a.m.: I make a decision to have all of us abort the hike and return to Whitney Portal. Erin had this look on her face. I then asked the group what they wanted to do. Erin wanted to keep pushing. Amy, Anne and Garv decide to turn around.

6:15 a.m.: Erin and I start to make our ascent from Trail Camp. We leave the other three behind. As much as I did not want to, it was a group consensus. I wanted everyone to summit. Today, Mother Nature prevailed. I am point. There is ice on the switchbacks due to the springs. I alert Erin to avoid stepping on the ice.

7:07 am.: Erin and I reach the cables. Halfway up the 97 switchbacks. The sun feels good as we make our way up. It is still windy and cold. I tell Erin that during June and July, one must venture outside the cables in order to make it to Trail Crest.

7:18 a.m. Meet Joe on our way up. He came within 200 feet from the summit and had to turn around due to headaches. He told us about the other members of his group and that they had turned around at Trail Camp. He tells us that Mike may be on his way back down. We do not know if he reached the summit.

7:48 a.m.: We meet Mike who was with me during my first Whitney summit in August 2004. He offers us his fleece wear jackets. These articles of clothing provided comfort especially for Erin. He provides us the summit conditions. He saw the sunrise on the summit. We may not see the sunrise, but the summit is our target and it is still a long way to go.

8:26 a.m.: Erin and I reach Trail Crest. She is in awe of the view of Hitchcock Mountains and Hitchcock Lakes and Sequoia National Park at 13,600 feet. It is very windy and still cold. We make a low profile to avoid being blown over by the gusty winds as we cross the crest to make our way to the John Muir Trail.

8:37 a.m.: We reach the Mount Whitney and John Muir Trail junction. We frequently stop along the way. Both of us are not feeling well, but we push each other to keep going. The winds at the "windows" are very strong. We keep a low profile to avoid being swept down as we make our way across. We hike for 15 minutes and rest for 5 minutes. Pace, pace, pace.

9:59 a.m.: We reach the "wedge" using our trekking poles without incident and continue our ascent. Every 100 steps we stop and rest for a moment and continue another 100 steps and stop. This tactic proved worthy. One hundred steps became twenty. Every other twenty...stop...rest...breathe...push...

10:17 a.m.: The summit hut is in sight. Just a few more "steps." The longest 200 yards.

10:23 a.m.: Summit. Erin's first summit first try of the 14,497.61 peak. My fourth "bag" and my "grand slam." I sign the register and take a picture. I proceed to the trail sign at the top. I take a picture of my gear next to the sign. I take a few pictures. Erin joins me and we take pictures of each other with our cameras. I take a picture of her at the summit register and the trail sign. The skies are clear and very windy and cold. We see the forest fire to the south. There are six other people on the summit. Not one marmot could be seen. Probably nestled between the rocks to avoid the chilly winds at the summit.

10:40 a.m.: Phase Two--the "getting-down-is-mandatory" part. Eleven miles to go. I give Erin a big hug and say, "Let's do it and get this over with!"

11:10 a.m.: We are stopped by two park rangers on the "backside." One of them asks if we are from the "parking lot" side meaning Whitney Portal. I tell them the trip and group report. We chatted and laughed for 10 minutes.

12:19 p.m.: Erin and I reach Trail Crest. It is literally all "downhill" from here. We slap on more sunscreen to protect us from the reflected sunlight from the rocks in front of us. It starts to warm up so I start to remove the layers of clothing.

1:45 p.m.: We reach the "springs" and fill up our water bottles to put in our Camelbak bladders.

2:00 p.m.: We reach Trail Camp after descending the 97 switchbacks. It is not as windy as this morning. We relay trail conditions to the other hikers. We wish them good luck on their summit.

3:10 p.m.: We pass Mirror Lake and hit the switchbacks before Outpost Camp. I point out to Erin the scenic expanse of Bighorn Park and Outpost Camp below. It is a sight to behold.

3:30 p.m.: We reach Outpost Camp. Not a tent nor a soul around. Abandoned. Another stream crossing and off we go. Usually one would see a park ranger here along the trail. Today was not the case.

3:56 p.m.: We leave the Whitney Zone. The longest 2.8 miles of the hike are ahead of us. We stop at the log crossing for more water.

5:08 p.m.: Done. 17 hours and 5 minutes. My second longest Whitney hike. Erin's ankle did fine. She had problems on San Bernardino Peak, but not this time. My back was bothering me on the descent but nothing major. I think it was due to the weather more than anything.

Erin spots Garv's vehicle in the day use parking lot and I figured he was waiting for us at the Whitney Portal Store. As we came closer to the store, we spotted Garv sitting on the outside patio. Congratulatory hugs and handshakes were exchanged.

We stopped by the Team Bruin campsite to provide them the trail report. I hope my report gives them a slight edge for their hike tomorrow.

Joe, Mike, Garv, Kelly, Horacio, Anne, Erin and I celebrate at the Pizza Factory.

Lessons learned: Never do what I did AGAIN when it comes to chucking gear to save weight!! Bring goggles or change sunglass lenses from dark to clear to shield eyes from wind.

WE DID IT!

INSPIRATION

"Before the gates of excellence the high gods have placed sweat; long is the road thereto and rough and steep at first; but when the heights are reached, then there is ease, though grievously hard in the winning."

"The heights by great men reached and kept
Were not obtained by sudden flight,
But they, while their companions slept,
Were toiling upward in the night."

"Those on top of the mountain did not fall there."

Thank you, Cheryl, for these quotes. I like all of them. Thank you very much for the inspiration.

HAPPY 50TH ANNIVERSARY, MOM AND DAD!

The two people who I admire most and have given me all a son could ever ask for are celebrating their GOLDEN ANNIVERSARY today.

Happy 50th Anniversary, Mom and Dad!

MT. SAN GORGONIO

Group #1: Ed, Pat, Dave, Jane, Aileen, Frank on top of Mt. San Gorgonio

I hiked to the top of Mt. San Gorgonio (11,501) with 10 other hikers. All but one of us reached the summit. We completed the 15.6 mile hike in 10 hours 30 minutes with ideal hiking conditions.

For the nine that reached Southern California's highest peak, all were their first summits on their first try. Dave and Jane, Michael, Aileen, Pat, Anne, Kristan, Frank, and Ed. Remarkable and incredible people. As for me it was my fifth summit.

My two hiking friends and wilderness permit holders, Dave and Jane, and eight other hikers started our hike around 6:00 a.m. Start of the hike was chilly but tolerable for some. Mosquitoes out in force as usual once exiting the vehicles. Ed arrived in the picnic area 30 minutes before Michael, Anne, Kristan and I arrived around 5:30am.

Trail washout was a concern due to deluge the night before, but the VCT trail was in excellent condition and no snow along the trail. There were only two trees that had fallen across the trail around the 10,400 mark. One was an "over or under" and the other was "around."

One of the hikers had a "bladder" problem. We tried to remedy the situation with some duct tape, but the moisture on the bladder prevented the tape from adhering to it.

The group and I performing water bladder first aid. That's me with my back towards the camera.

Cumulus clouds started to form at Galena Peak lookout as we neared High Creek Camp. As we neared the 10,000 foot mark, the skies became overcast. However, clouds provided valuable shade as we made our way along the exposed section of the trail above 10,500 feet. Hardly any wind at all along this section. Chilly from the 11,000 up.

Ed, me, and Pat at the last stop at 11,000 feet for another 500 vertical feet in 3/4 miles.

Two summit groups. First group: Dave, Jane, Aileen, Frank, Ed, Pat, and me reached summit around 11:35 a.m. Second group: Michael, Anne, and Kristan reached around noon. All first summits for all nine.

Me, Ed, Pat and Aileen at the summit. The person in red was not a member of our group.

Aileen, Jane, Dave, Frank and me.

The summit marker was missing due to souvenir hunters probably. A well-fed chipmunk scurried about looking for food.

King Fat Chipmunk sitting on what was the summit marker nearby.

Dark and grey clouds became concern at summit. It was decided to descend back down at noon.

As we past Group #2 on the way down, Michael reported to me that Kelly was having problems with the altitude and was sitting somewhere along the trail. As I sat approximately 300 yards below the Mineshaft Saddle/Vivian Creek junction waiting for Group #2 to come down, I saw Kelly coming up the trail. This was to be his turnaround point. I wish he had made it to the summit, but today was not the day. He made the right decision to turn around.

Our descent was uneventful. Met two rangers and they checked our permit. The last 1.2 miles from VCC to the TH is always a killer on the knees.

Many thanks to Kelly for providing much needed and well-deserved Hansen's sodas for post-hike festivities.

Congratulations to all on their first summit! Job well done!

Somewhere along the Vivian Creek Trail.

Trail notes: Do not trust meteorological reports if they forecast "sunny skies" and beware of cumulus clouds forming. Frequent breaks along sections of the trail key for first-timers. Rest stops: Vivian Creek, Amphitheater, Halfway Camp, Galena Peak, High Creek Camp, Ridgeline. Keep breaks minimal in duration. There are 16 switchbacks between HCC and the ridgeline around 10,000 feet. Why is it that the Mill Creek Ranger Station cannot provide the latest trail or weather conditions for the SGWA? In all my hikes in the SGWA, I have always met rangers on the VCT, South Fork, and San Bernardino Peak trails. Why can't they provide the latest conditions. Plenty of water in the creeks and filtration/purification strongly recommended. There was a bear sighting by Mill Creek by another group of hikers early in the morning.

MT. SAN ANTONIO

Anne's first summit to Mt. San Antonio (10,064).

I hiked with Michael, Anne and Kristan. They have never been to the summit of Mt. San Antonio.

The four of us hit the trail at 8:35 a.m. It was a slow go all the way. We stayed together the entire way and we reached the Sierra Club Ski Hut around 10:30.

We sat in the shade for 10 minutes as we snacked and rested. I pointed out the Christmas Tree to the group. The ski hut was closed. The outhouse had plenty of toilet paper.

It was back to business. We headed up for the summit. Someone had taken the time to line the trail in the scree. Usually, one can lose the trail. After the "bowl" it was up the steep switchbacks to the ridgeline. Then it still continues to go up.

I pointed out the plane wreckage to the group as we made our way up to the summit.

We reached the summit around 12:05.

We stayed at the summit for about 25 minutes. I pointed out to Anne and Kristan the various peaks and landmarks below us. Michael was taking this opportunity to take a lot of pictures.

We started our descent at 12:30 and we were at the ski hut in one hour. We were literally flying down from the summit. After replenishing our water, we finished our hike around 1:45.

It was Mike, Anne and Kristan's first summit. I was happy to be a part of their life's achievement. There is nothing like standing on a mountaintop look down and around.

We were on the road by 2:15 and headed home.

We returned to our vehicles in the Claim Jumper restaurant parking lot around 3:30. I went into Claim Jumper to get me a meatloaf sandwich to go. A great sandwich to end the day.

MT. BADEN-POWELL II

Erin near the summit with Joe encouraging her on.

Joe and Erin at the obelisk.

Erin at the summit marker with Mt. San Antonio in the background.

Me and Erin.

Patty became interested in mountaineering while her and her husband were troop leaders of their son's boy scout troop. Mt. Baden-Powell is named after the founder of the Boy Scouts. I dedicated this hike in her memory. We have to carry on for Patty...she would have wanted it that way.

Erin, Joe and I set out on our hike to BP's summit around 9:30 a.m. It was ideal hiking conditions. Erin experienced some hip pain about three-quarters of a mile from the summit. I immediately took one of the full Nalgene bottles from her pack to lighten the load. Joe offered to carry it for her. That seemed to do the trick.

We reached the summit at 12:00. It was Erin's first summit of the 9,399 foot peak. Her first summit of any peak for that matter. There were tens of thousands of ladybug beetles flying around at the summit to greet us.

The hike took us 4 hours and 15 minutes.

The torch has been passed to another mountaineer...

MT. BADEN-POWELL

Mt. San Antonio (10,064) as seen from the ridgeline looking south just before Mt. Baden-Powell summit.

Only 0.2 of a mile and a couple of hundred of feet to the summit.

Mt. Baden-Powell summit marker.

Mt. Baden-Powell (9,399) as seen from the Angeles Crest Highway (SR-2).

The obelisk dedicated to the founder of the Boy Scouts, Lord Robert Stevenson Smyth Baden-Powell.

I hiked with members of my hiking group to the 9,399 foot summit of Mt. Baden-Powell.

Great day. We started the hike at 9:40 a.m. at Vincent Gap (6,565) and finished at 1:10 p.m. with a 15-minute summit rest. Took me a little over 2 hours to reach the summit.

This trail is part of the annual Angeles Crest 100 trailrunning race. This trail would be a great quick acclimatizing trail for anyone starting out on their Mt. Whitney training. It is an 8-mile out and back with 35 long switchbacks in between. Some say there are 41 so I may have lost count on my descent. The trekking poles came in handy on the ascent and descent. The views of Mt. San Antonio ("Baldy"), West Baldy, Iron Mountain, Mt. Harwood and the desert at Mt. Baden-Powell's summit were spectacular.

MT. WILSON

I hiked with Dave and Jane for the first time. This was my first time on the Mt. Wilson Trail.

Directional marker in the pavillion at the summit.

The antennae farm on top of Mt. Wilson. There are also observatories up here as well.

The Mt. Wilson Trail. This 7-mile (or 7.5 if you prefer) takes you to the summit of Mt. Wilson (5,680 feet). This trail has an elevation change of 4,710 feet (approximately 780 feet per mile). It took 4 hours to reach the top and 3 hours to get back down. Overcast conditions ruled the day. Poison oak and ceanothus lined the upper and narrower sections of the trail. There was some scrambling along one portion of the trail as well as a couple of stream crossings. This was the most strenuous hike I have ever hiked in the San Gabriels. It felt like I hiked the 22-mile Mt. Whitney Trail minus the altitude (elevation change per mile is 572 feet).

The "Bruins" -- Dave and Jane. They live next to the San Gabriel Mountains and know the area very well. They will be going to Mt. Whitney on August 11 for a day-hike. It will be their first summit attempt. They shouldn't have any problems making it to the top.

Silhoutte. Santiago Peak is in the background. The "May Gray" enveloped the valley. It was chilly at the pavillion so we had to layer up. We had a 20 minute layover at the summit.

SNOW TRAVEL SCHOOL

The town...Bishop, CA. Many fisherman stay here to fish in the numerous lakes that surround the area. The temperature in Bishop was 90 degrees during my stay there.

The setting...Convict Lake (7,621 feet) and Laurel Mountain (11,812 feet). The lake is approximately 35 miles northwest of Bishop. Temperatures reached into the lower 70s. What a beautiful day!


The students...Kristine, Dan and me. Dan hails from San Diego and is an auto technician for an automobile dealership. He will attempt to summit Mt. Whitney this year in mid-August for the very first time. Kristine, who is from Los Angeles, is self-employed and plans on climbing Mt. Rainier (14,410 feet) in Washington state and climbing three of the infamous 7 summits: Aconcagua (22,841 feet) in South America, Kilimanjaro (19,340 feet) in Africa, and Mt. McKinley (20,320 feet).

Our instructor...Ann. She received her outdoor education credentials at Prescott College in Prescott, Arizona where she obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in Environmental Education in May 1998. She works as a mountain guide specializing in rock climbing, backpacking, and mountaineering. She is also an expert avalanche instructor. Ann has experience both professionally and recreationally in mountain ranges throughout the western United States. She is proud to call Bishop her home. When not guiding, Ann’s passions include climbing long alpine routes in the Sierra, backcountry skiing, and rock climbing.

The classroom...was an avalanche chute (the long one in the back from left to right). The school covered the basics of travel on snow. Many trips in the Sierra require traveling on snow, from peak ascents to backpacking journeys routed over passes along the Sierra Crest. Many passes are over 12,000 feet and snow can stay at these elevations through the middle of summer. Techniques practiced included use of an ice axe, efficient methods for walking up and down on snow, cramponing skills, travel roped together with other people, and belaying on snow. This course provided practical knowledge applicable to climbing snow covered peaks throughout the year or during backcountry adventures during the summer months with an occasional snowfield to negotiate.

One of the things we learned was how to stop from sliding down a slope using the ice axe (self-arrest). Imagine yourself lying on your back-head first sliding down and then learning how to turn over and stop yourself from sliding off into the lake. Scary at first because of the position you are in. Once you sit down with your back to the lake you start to slide. You had to make footholds with the heel of your boots. Then you lifted you feet and away you went. Once you were able to self-arrest, it wasn’t all that bad just a little different.

The other self-arrest techniques we practiced were the seated-feet first and stomach-head first. Going stomach-head first was a rush, too. After two tries, I went into a "running start" mode while yelling, "FALLING!" I flew into the air, landed on my belly, slid for 20 feet and self-arrested with plenty of room to spare from the edge of the lake.

We had to practice using both our left and right hand sides.

We also practiced self-arrest using just our elbows. This technique is only recommended for freeze-melt (soft abrasive snow) and NOT ON ICE!

Snow travel is an art, a science, and an exercise. Going up and down this slope took a lot out of me. Extreme physical exertion of walking up snow mixed in with some high altitude was definitely a workout.

I had fun.

THE WHITNEY ZONE

The Mountaineers Route is in the couloir to the right of Whitney. Photo compliments of Richard P.

The "Secret Sacred Place" but be careful where you tread. Photos compliments of Bob R.

Bighorn Park and next to the rock formations to the left is Outpost Camp. Notice the spindrift at the crest. Photo compliments of Bob R.

ADVICE

From Tom:
20 years ago I had 3 herniated disc's could barely walk for a year and had all the symptoms you have described. All caused from racing bicycles. Your question can you hike? My thoughts, every back problem is different you will know the days before your hike. My fix after a year of unsucessful Chiro experiences was an epidural steriod shot followed by a 12 Pack of Bud and a year of rest. Since then life has been problem free half-marathons, one-day Whitneys, on and on. Good luck and don't push it.

From Kev:
Just over two years ago I had surgery on L5 S1 for a ruptured disc. Prior to the surgery I had pain in my left leg that eventualy led to total loss of feeling from the hip down. After surgery the leg pain is gone but 2 years later and I still have numbness from the knee down to my toes. I still have pain every day in my low back and being a fireman it gets worse after fires or physical activity. I still hike, ski, climb but with constant minor pain and sometimes strong pain. I take vicodin for the pain at home but not at work. NSAIDs do nothing for me nor does chiropractic except for the short term. There are others out there with much better success than I have had so dont get discouraged. I would and could do Whitney in a heartbeat. I would call my surgery a success because I can still walk where I could barely walk before.

From Hose:
I have suffered from the same herniated disc as you for the last 6+ years. Sounds like the sciatica and numbness you endure is a little more extreme than mine but this will likely reduce with time. I used to run for training but have been reduced to walking the last few years; fortunately I live in a hilly area. I summited Whitney via the Main Trail last July 9. Since my injury I have summited Borah Peak in Idaho, Boundary Peak in Nevada, Mt. Sill, Middle Palisade, Mt. Dana, Mt Gibbs, Mt. Hoffman in the Sierras, packed in and bagged Kings Peak in Utah, got stormed off Bonney Pass in an attempt on Gannett Peak in the Winds last fall, blah, blah, blah. My point is be patient and give it some time. When CA State Disability determined that I was 27% permanently disabled I blacked out, but was backpacking again within 2 years. I also think that you should consider chiropractic treatment. I was very hesitant to seek services but found a doctor that utilises what is called low impact chiropractry; no bone-cracking neck-twisting and body-snapping. Allignment is achieved using a small instrument to, "nudge", parts back into place. All this said, I still have problems and pain, sometimes acute, but usually associated with travel, (long periods of sitting). Good luck on your Whitney attempt.

From Pink:
Have you thought about trying Pilates? It teaches you how to stabilize your spine by strengthening your core muscles. Many people with spinal problems have experienced relief - short and long term.

From WBT:
I've got similar problems, with numbness down to the knee, and am scheduled for an MRI on the 3rd. So, I'm interested in your progress.

From H Bob:
Please don't have the same reservations about having your ruptured disc surgically repaired as you might have had a few years ago. Medical science has come a long way.I know you didn't want anectodal evidence, but I do personally know of two close friends, both of whom suffered their injuries in active duty in the Marine Corps. While there is no way I'm going to be critical of the Veteran's Hospitals available, both of my buddies did extensive research and had their surgeries performed through USC Medical Center. They are relatively young men, in their early 30s, but they were becoming cripples. I could see this happening to them. And now after sucessful surgery, they are swimming, running, and definitely hiking, (Trying not to backpack with a heavy overnight pack). If your condition continues to deteriorate, consider surgery as an option, but definitely do your research as to where it will be done.

From Passin:
I will wade in now. I had the same symptoms, although confined to left leg only and deep inside left hip. Came home limping every day, almost couldn't make it inside the house. Found relief with ice packs at first. Finally went to my Dr.==referral to physical therapy for 8 weeks. Back to Dr.==referral for 8 more weeks of P.T. Finally referral to Orthopedist who worked with a Neurologist too. Neurologist took base-line "functionality" of my nerves, and was present in the O.R. during surgery to notify Dr. of any impingement during procedure. MRI showed one herniated disc, but they found two when inside. This all took place in '96. RESULT == IMMEDIATE RELIEF FROM THE PAIN. Only 2 days in hospital. Walking == GOOD, sitting == BAD. Now watch posture all the time== GOOD. Just hiked Sat. to a geocache with son and grandson, hiked to Cottonwood Lakes last August, will be 63 next month.

From K:
Ok, good to hear that you are doing better! Lets talk about the anatomy of the situation: A disc is literally a short, fat disk, consisting of an outer durable membrane, and a inner jelly-like liquid. At the back of the spine, there is a "tunnel" of bone, through which the spinal cord passes, and at each vertebrae level, a nerve leaves the cord to supply that level of the body. These "supply nerves" also pass though a bony tunnel to exit on each side of the spine, roughly at 45 deg from the back, on either side.The pathology occurs when the outer membrane of the disc ruptures, allowing some of the inner jelly to "pooch" out. If this happens in any direction OTHER than where the "supply nerves" are, at 45 deg, *there are basically NO symptoms*. HOWEVER, if the "pooching" occurs at the 45 deg angle, it traps the supply nerve against the side of the bony tunnel through which it passes, applying a crushing pressure on the nerve.This can produce two distinct syndromes: pain, by itself; or pain along with other neurologic effects, such as weakness, numbness.What will happen with time, is that the pooched out inner disc will act like jelly left on the countertop.....is will dessicate, losing it's water content, and shrinking to nothing. This takes time. The folks that are generally candidates for surgery are those with advanced or advancing neurologic signs, and those for whom the pain does not resolve in a reasonable time. This is less than one person in twenty! (of those with REAL disc pathology, most people with back pain do NOT have disc problems!) In these folks the nerve is being crushed, and permanently damaged. In people with JUST pain, it is virtually always a transient event, and will resolve on it's own, with time. However, the time frame may be a couple of months. Generally, the error made is to operate prematurely on people with pain only. While it is gratifying to see someone in significant pain lose the pain, an operated back is never the same, and the operation has significant risks. It is also gratifying to see someone recover without surgery, as occurs 95% of the time.....By the way, in our "techno-crazy" society, it is worth noting that MRI's are WAY overused. A skilled clinician can accurately diagnose a disc problem with no imaging (even rule it out). An MRI is NOT the deciding factor in going to surgery, nor in making the diagnosis....it is useful mainly in telling the surgeon where to cut, after the decision has been made. So all that having been said, it sounds like there is no reason for you to have surgery. (I DO play a doctor on TV, and am one in real life)

From KM:
It sounds like you are already feeling better - Great! And I hope that you continue down that path.I have several degenerated disks wtih the worst ones at S5-L1 and L3-L4 and had 5 or 6 epidurals, facet joint injections, radio frequency nerve cauterizations (2x) all with no results. After a diskogram ID'd that the pain was coming fom L3-L4, I had IDET (Aug. '04) with GREAT results. It can be painful and slow to recover from, but I was not interested in fusion, which is irreversable. IMO, IDET is still surgery, but it is much less invasive than the other options. Granted, that ain't a herniated disk, but some things are transferable. 1 - make SURE that your problem is coming from the herniated disk, and not from elsewhere. 2 - when your first doctor and possibly the neurosurgeon say "we won't cut for at least 6 months" listen to them even if you can't stomach the thought of living with pain for a minute longer. Sometimes the pain just does "go away" (but you already know that...) 3 - core strength, core strength, core strength and flexibility, flexibility, flexibility!!! And make sure to stretch your psoas muscle - it took me 5 physical therapists to learn this one, but once I did life got much better. 4 - yes, you will hike again. It might seem like a million years ago when you were healthy and you will never walk without pain again, but there is light at the end of the tunnel. Just take it slow getting to that light and don't aggravate what is currenly healing. I make darn sure that my pack is transferring its weight via the waist belt to my hips and not via the shoulder straps. Watch your progress. Take it slow and steady. And you will hike again. Disclaimer - This is solely based on personal experinece. I ain't a doctor, and I don't play one on TV. But I do think that I am good lookin' enough to do so..... or not.

From StC:
Now that you are better, it is time to get on a program to help prevent future occurrences of your back trouble -- strengthen your torso. In the past, I have suffered with severe back problems, but have been mostly free of problems for a number of years now. I credit that to the fact that I do situps and curls, back extensions, use a back-twisting weight machine, and several others specifically for my back. In fact, about half of my weight workout exercises are done to keep my back healthy. It really helps!

From Mar:
I ran across a book, Pain Free, by Pete Egoscue several years ago. I was having problems with carpal tunnel syndrome. Doing simple exercises, for lack of a better word, solved the problem. This past summer in training for my JMT trip I started experiencing severe knee pain. It hurt to walk at all. I purchased a new copy, not remembering who I had given the old copy and did the exercises. I was able to do the trip with no problems, at least from my knee. I got a nasty rash on the back of my calf, plant related, and hiked out at Florence Lake. The book is broken down by body part; feet, knees, shoulders, ... and backs. It focuses on balencing the muscles in the body so that each muscle is doing what its supposed to, no more or less. It may not help, everyone's situation is different, but I think it is definetly worth a try. Good Luck.

From Raf:
I'm sure that the weights and strengthening help in prevention of injuries. I use to get a real sore right knee on long downhill hikes. My father-in-law who is a former basketball coach suggested a weight regimen for strengthening the legs and since I've done it it has eliminated the knee pain completely. It also has helped give more spring to my legs when hiking up steep hills.

From Loose:
I'm sure you know but stretching is even more important than working out in avoiding injuries.The more flexible you are, the better...

From Bob:
Your excercise regimen is impressive for any age. I used to run long distances regularly to train for marathons. I recall the principle of the "light exercise week" to avoid tearing down the body and give the body a chance to rebuild. In other words, about every fourth week, if I remember correctly, I would have a week where my running mileage was significantly reduced. Maybe this applies to your type of exercises too.

From Brik:
Ken is the doctor and having experienced a bout with sciatica two years ago, I wholeheartedly concur that surgery should be only the remotest last option. Avoid it if at all possible. I got, read and applied techniques offered in a booklet "The Sciatica Relief Handbook" (Chet Cunningham) from United Research Publishers. It's got several explantions, diagrams, and especially useful exercises to strengthen muscles. Also, from another source I learned about the "tennis ball" drill where you lay flat on the floor and place a tennis ball where your back pocket would be (on whichever side is experiencing pain) then gently roll up onto the ball. If too much pain occurs, back off. This is done over a period of days until you're able to get up onto the ball and stay without pain for a minute. The drill is designed to massage the piriformis muscle which often traps the sciatic nerve and causes pain. My episode began in December, 2003 and I could barely walk, sit, get out of bed for the next four months. As has been recommended here, I did nothing. I typically exercise (a 4 mile walk/jog, stair climb, or Nordic track) four-fives times a week. So I got a case of the guilts not doing anything, but then again I simply couldn't do anything. The layoff, coupled with the floor exercises, finally let me get back to normal by the end of March, 2004. As others have said here too, as often as not the problem will go away by itself, but you've got to give the body the chance it needs to rest. Good Luck. I can see you at the top of Whitney this summer for sure.....

From NM:
Hi,I had surgery on my L5-S1 in June 2001 and it was the right decision. I have been totally pain and symptom free ever since. For months prior to the surgery I tried everything but it progressed to the point I could barely walk, could not sit. Immediately following the surgery I was pain free. I carried 45lbs+ on several trips last year, including a solo backpack/Whitney climb in early Oct. with no problems. I highly recommend the surgeon (Dr. Tim Peppers of Scripps San Diego).

From Bruin:
Knowing you just went through your last round of epidurals yesterday, I can only imagine how you're feeling today. Probably far from being on the top of your game -- and probably more than a little dejected about the whole hiking thing. One thought, though. Your back IS THE MOST IMPORTANT THING IN YOUR LIFE right now. Your entire focus. A long-time buddy of mine (professional painter) took a spill off a ladder last year from about 30'. The good news is he stuck the landing. The bad news is that he stuck the landing ... and broke both his heels. Very painful, very slow process, but progress is being made. A friend of his is Marty McSorley (enforcer-guy of Kings hockey fame, but actually a very "normal" and caring individual), and Marty said something to him that my buddy said stuck with him throughout this ongoing process -- "your only job right now is to get well -- everything else is secondary." And it's true. The switchbacks will always be there. And while we're on that topic, keep in mind that some switchbacks are tougher than others, and even some demand the hike be interrupted. Bottom line: whatever lays ahead, you WILL get through it. With all that you've endured, especially over the last couple of years, do you have any doubt? If you do, you shouldn't. Whether Whitney's a reality this year or not, it will still be there for future attempts. Focus on the back. Continue to take care of everything you are doing, from unloading a dishwasher (yep, that simple task threw me into a sciatica episode once), to getting up from sitting, to everything else. The back is the focus. (You know better than anyone how important your back is.) One other thing -- based solely upon your Hiking Organization 101 MegaList, you're a planner (7 P's). Great attribute. But you don't have to "decide" on Whitney for a good couple of months, really. The true training will kick into high gear by May, and your crew will just need to make due until then. So, relax for now, get as comfortable as possible, take in a few basketball games on the TV (Go Bruins), get as close to 100% as you can, and then decide on whether this year's attempt is possible. You're gonna make it.

From KK:
I have one too, plus a disc that has deteriorated. The pain forced me to bail out early of a group hike in the Grand Canyon, and I set aside plans to arrange a large group hike in the Sierra, presuming I might not even be able to get to the trailhead. This was two or three years ago. I went through several physicians looking for a happy answer—pretty much what you have done. Not liking the prospect of surgery, and deciding that shots weren’t a long-term option, I decided just to do what physical activities I could, taking a generic form of Aleve daily. I resumed modest weight training at home. It wasn’t too long before I found I could mountain bike for a couple of hours before the discomfort became too much, even though I couldn’t stand erect on my feet for 10 minutes without my back annoying me. (I suppose the forward lean of a bicycle puts less strain on my discs.) Then I found that I could begin hiking again, provided I used a light pack. My discs have not improved, I’m sure (they don’t un-herniate on their own), and I have daily discomfort, but I spent three days this month backpacking in the Grand Canyon and ended up with sore legs but not a sore back.


From SteveM.
Yes indeed. I was one of the lucky ones. I'll give you my history and what solved my problems. I can't say that they'd necessarily be the same, but from experience, I can say, I can't think of any worse pain than a herniated disc and a pinched nerve. I did have a herniated disc and pinched nerves.

Initially, I weighed 245lbs. At 5'8 tall, that's a lot of excess baggage. One day, woke up with excruciating pain down my left butt cheek. Went to the chiropractor. Had visited the chiropractor about 2 times every couple of years. My back would tend to lock up. Chiropractor made it worse. The pain ended up down the back of my entire leg anytime I stood straight up. Ended up getting 2 epidurals at Loma Linda and one at Kaiser. One of the epidurals gave me relief for about a week or two, then the pain came back. I suffered for 10 months. I did find that if I leaned slightly forward, like I was leaning on a shopping cart, the pain would subside, so I started riding a bicycle and dieted. In 9 months, I lost 75 lbs. One morning I stood up and the pain was gone. Scared the crap out of me, but it disappeared for 5 years. I kept the weight off and have done a pretty good job of it since.

After 5 years of peace (and pain free) I started getting an uncomfortable feeling on the front of my thigh--on the opposite leg if I sat for more than 20 minutes. Progressively got worse over a period of time. Pretty soon I had to dash my car to the side of the road and jump out. I'd have to walk off the pain. Drive another 15 or 20 minutes and do the same thing.

One day, woke up to the most excruciating pain I could ever imagine. Couldnt understand why my brain wouldnt shut down and let me pass out. Went to Kaiser. Tried another epidural. Didnt do squat.

At that point, a neurosurgeon by the name of Todd Goldberg at Kaiser gave me the option of waiting another month for another epidural or to have a procedure called a microdiscectomy. Which grinds out part of the hardened disc that has been crushing the nerve. I couldnt stand the pain and opted for the surgery.

I have to say, it was a strange and scary situation after the surgery. The following morning, they gave me a walker and let me walk around the hospital section I was staying in. Was a difficult thing. I can't understand how a simple operation can practically take away your ability to walk, but it was very difficult, and was for a month or more after the surgery.

I could no longer ride a bicycle, due to the fact that I couldn't push down on my right leg when the pedal got to the top. I was able to walk, but I could barely lift my right leg off the ground and found myself face flat on the ground several times when my toe kicked a high spot in the sidewalk or a curb that I just didn't lift high enough to clear. Had little control of my right leg. Another odd thing was, the front of my leg where the pain had been, stayed numb for nearly a year. Finally, all my senses came back.

I never got back into bicycle riding, although I can now. But I did start walking. Nearly 7 miles each day. I worry about the weight and pain coming back. It has now been about 5 years since the surgery. I started hiking a year after it. Have carried loads nearly 50lbs on occasions (although I've cut that in half with lighter gear) and have never had a wince of pain since.

I will say that if you're in constant pain, you need a Dr who has sympathy. There are some that I've found to be worthless. I would not suggest an orthopedic surgeon. I'd try a neurosurgeon. You need to check into the options available to you. I don't know if Todd is still at Kaiser in Fontana and I don't carry Kaiser anymore, but I'd pay out of my pocket just to talk to him, if I had the problem again. He did me good.

I wish you well.

PORTAL LAND

Doug's vision of the new Whitney Portal Store Hotel, Casino, and Spa.

NEUROLOGIST CONSULTATION

Big day today! My neurologist appointment is at 2:00.

This appointment is like hiking a trail I have never been on before. I will not know what is up ahead until I get there. I am prepared and very anxious. Just another switchback closer to the summit.

Once I am at that switchback...

On to the next.

POST EPIDURAL

I was in jovial spirits when I arrived at surgical center.

They were expecting me as usual. Walked right up to the front desk and Chris had my patient ID band ready to go.

Around 1:00 p.m., the doctor summons me to the surgical bay to get started. I go into the changing room and I told him that I knew the whole routine.

Instead of Susan attending to my pre-op, I had Deidra, who had some sort of attitude about her. She had a hard time trying to stick the IV in my arm. Don’t know why because I am vascular enough as it is and my veins protrude for the entire world to see.

The epidural procedure was uneventful. They told me to sit up on the side of the bed. I asked the doctor if they gave me the "cocktail" because I wasn't feeling funny. They said they did.

I felt the pressure as the doctor stuck me with the needle.

There was one time when I was warned that a cold solution would be sprayed on my back and they told me not to flinch. Now, whenever something cold touches my back you are damn right I am going to flinch. I flinched a little. Deidra kept telling me to breathe. I told her I was and that “you told me not to move so I am doing deep rhythmic breathing so there!”

After the epidural, she took my blood pressure. 170/110! Why so high? I don’t like hospitals or any clinic for that matter. In fact, when Deidra asked me if I were allergic to any medications I replied, “Nothing, just hospitals.”

My last two visits they took my vitals before the procedure. Why after?

Deidra she put the heart rate monitor on my right forefinger. Then she told me to "bend my arm straight."

Eh deh what? Bend my arm straight? I look at Deidra and said, "Where I come from we bend our arms and we STRAIGHTEN our arms out." She gave me that "smart *ss" look. Better than being a dumb one. I am not a member of that gene pool.

Then Deidra started asking me questions:
When was the last time you ate? 10:30.
What did you have? I ate a banana and an apple and a chewy granola bar.
You need to eat a big lunch. I wasn’t hungry.
When was the last time you drank any fluids? Around 11:30 a big tall glass.
Oh, so we are on the dry side. I didn’t want my bladder full in case I couldn’t control the flow during the procedure.
Any alcohol last night? Yes, I had a seven course meal – a cold pizza and a six pack.
When? Eight o’clock I guess because the beer and pizza started to make me sleepy.
Would you like something to drink like water or juice? Got any JD?
Juice or water? Juice.

I was waiting for other questions like "When was your last bowel movement?" or "When was the last time you had sex?" Those questions were never asked. I did have the answers if they were asked.

After the interrogation, I was given two packages of Capri Sun Wild Cherry. I guess I was rewarded with two due to my good behavior. No wonder the cost of medical care is skyrocketing.

Then Susan, my “clinic wife,” came over and noticed the IV was halfway out. I whispered to her and said, “Because you didn’t do it.” I gave her a wink and she smiled back. I am such a flirt.

It was time to get dressed and plop myself down in the wheelchair for my final ride to Kindra’s car. Did I say final? I sure as hell hope so.

About 2:05 p.m., Kindra drops me off and as I got out of her vehicle I could feel my legs are wobbly and my mind is groggy.

I am fighting the urge to sleep, but it looks like my brain is misfiring because I am having a hard time blogging right now. My entire right leg is numb right now. I am sure it has something to do with the epidural. I can still feel the tingling sensation in my right toes. My left leg is fine. I will watch some golf to lull me into a deep sleep.

I just hope I do not have a repeat performance like I did two weeks ago. March 11 was not my best of days.

Another trek and another trail under my belt.

Have a great weekend everyone!

EPIDURAL NO. 3

Today I go for the third and final epidural shot. I shall miss these shots, because it was my ticket to an early weekend. It sure was great "crashing" on the Fridays of my shots.

I want to thank Kindra, my "hiking wife," for providing transportation during these last five weeks. She has had the same kind of treatment herself, so I guess you can call her my "mentor" as well. Kindra, I owe you big time and I am good for it! I know, "What comes around, goes around!"

I also want to thank Dean, who works in the MIS Department, for providing me a ride to work on two of the three Fridays. It was very nice of him to offer a ride. Dean gave me a ride to work on March 10. He wasn't feeling well yet he still showed up at my apartment complex and drove me to work and then he went home. Above and beyond the call of duty. Dean also stopped by last Saturday to fix my computer woes!

I have been pain-free for 11 days today. It has been amazing I have lasted this long without any discomfort aside from the tingling sensation in my right toes.

That concludes the hiking on this trail. Time to head back to base camp to rest and recover.

One more down and many more to go.

WORLD'S EASIEST QUIZ ANSWERS

Here are the answers to the "World's Easiest Quiz"...

1) How long did the Hundred Years War last?

116 years



2) Which country makes Panama hats?

Ecuador



3) From which animal do we get catgut?

Sheep and horses



4) In which month do Russians celebrate the October Revolution?

November



5) What is a camel’s hair brush made of?

Squirrel fur



6) The Canary Islands in the Pacific are named after what animal?

Dogs



7) What was King George VI's first name?

Albert



8) What color is a purple finch?

Crimson



9) Where are Chinese gooseberries from?

New Zealand

TINGLING

I awaken with a severe tingling sensation in my right foot. No pain, just an amplified tingling sensation. Concerns? Yes.

The more I walk the better it gets. Sitting while blogging is no problem.

I also feel a slight twinge in my lower left back. That has subsided. It wasn't a shooting pain. It was like, "Hello, I am still down here."

I have been eating an apple during lunch since March 13 and the right leg pain has subsided and disappeared on March 14. It could be a placebo kind of thing. Maybe an apple a day does keep the doctor away!

I have to find a little humor in all this. Laughter IS the best medicine.

WORLD BASEBALL CLASSIC

After 38 games it comes down to just one. Game #39. Japan versus Cuba. Who would have thought?

Congratulations to Japan for defeating Cuba, 10-6, at Petco Park in San Diego. Congratulations to Cuba for being allowed to play in this inaugural classic and for their sportsmanship following the game.

Baseball at its finest, at its purest. National pride on and off the field. You would have sworn you were at a football or soccer game.

Too bad it is all over. Thank you to all teams that participated.

"SCRATCHED"

This was some of the gear I was going to take with me: parka, goggles, mountaineer helmet, ice axe, snowshoes, crampons, cap, gaiters, and hiking boots.

I cancelled my hike to Mt. Baldy. Not the kind of "scratch" I had in mind.

I kept thinking about what people have been telling me over the past couple of months, "Get well, Gary, the mountains will always be there."

With my third epidural on March 24 and my neurologist consultation on March 31, it would be wise to lay off the strenuous physical activity until I get the green light.

While on the topic of getting well I am still pain free. I am ever so careful how I pick up things off the floor or how I turn around or how I lie down or get back up. I know there is a fine line between agony and ectasy.

I want to enjoy the ectasy part.

MOUNTAIN LION SAFETY TIPS

With spring less than a week away, many people are heading out into wilderness areas. Remember, you are in their "yard." Nature is unpredictable.

Report any mountain lion sightings to the California Department of Fish and Game.


MOUNTAIN LION SAFETY TIPS
Orange County Register
Source: California Department of Fish and Game
Compiled by: News Researcher Michael Doss


DO NOT HIKE ALONE; go in groups with adults supervising children.


DO NOT RUN; that might stimulate a lion’s instinct to chase.


Stand and face the animal; make eye contact.


Pick up young children, without bending or turning from the lion if possible.


DO NOT crouch down or bend over; you might appear like ordinary four-legged prey to the lion instead of a human.


DO all you can to appear larger -- raise your arms, open your jacket, throw stones, branches.


Fight back if attacked.


Mountains lions have been repelled with rocks, sticks, garden tools and bare hands.


Remove dense and low-lying vegetation that provide good hiding places for mountain lions.


Install motion-sensitive outdoor lighting.


Keep pets from roaming and don’t feed pets outside.

AND ALL THROUGH THE NIGHT

I awaken without any problems. A full 24 hours! Imagine that!

I heave a sigh of relief in recognition of reaching a long awaited milestone.

I feel like jumping up and down for joy. On second thought, I think I will pass on the jumping up and down.

Wouldn't be prudent.

ALL THROUGH THE DAY...

I lasted a whole work day without any pain or problems.

When I came home...nothing.

I went to bed...nothing.

For the first time since February 4, I was pain-free!

IT'S A MIRACLE!

NEUROLOGIST

Last night, my doctor called as a follow-up to the message I left him yesterday. I told him about my visit to the ER Saturday night and I gave him a rundown on my current condition.

I had told him that the nurse from the neurologist's office had called and left a message for me to schedule an appointment. My doctor strongly recommended that I make that appointment now and not wait until the epidurals end. He told me there could up to a two-week wait.

I will call that neurologist first thing this morning. I told my doctor that once I make that appointment I will call him and leave a message that I did so.

I have a feeling I may require surgery. Another switchback in my life. Overcoming another switchback means I am getting closer to the summit.

My doctor is a very good doctor. He tells things the way they are without holding anything back. You have to respect a person like that.

I slept well last night. No pain, no problems. All systems are fine in regards to other bodily functions. I did not take any meds before retiring last night. I slept like a big baby.

I awake without any pain. On the pain scale of 0-10 with 10 being THE worst, I am around a 1. I attribute that "1" to the tingling sensation still in my right toes. The time now is 5:49 a.m. There is still a lot of day left today.

I will blog with any latest developments.

Thank you for reading.

TINGLING SENSATION

There is a tingling sensation in the toes of my right foot. I do not know if this is a good or bad.

The pain comes and goes now whenever I walk or sit. It feels like a really bad cramp in my hip area. After a while, the pain subsides and I am able to carry on about my work. Sometimes the pain returns just to put me in check.

Standing seems to be a new "painful" problem. Guess I will either have to keep moving or keep sitting. I stand it hurts, but not sitting, moving or lying down. I sit it hurts, but not standing, moving, or lying down. I move it hurts, but not sitting, standing, or lying down. I lie down it hurts, but not sitting, standing or moving. Trend? Cycle? What is up with that?!

I have not taken any Vicodin today. My main objective is to go through the entire day without taking a single pill even before I go to bed.

I have called my doctor and left a message about my visit to the ER on Saturday night.

LAPTOP

I purchased my very first laptop, an HP Pavilion notebook, from Circuit City.

My trusty 8-year-old Gateway PC has seen its last days. I am going to have one of the MIS guys at work perform "CPR" on it this weekend to see if it is worth it to keep it.

Now I have an electronic companion to occupy my idle time in the wee hours of the morning. Guess I can say I have an "e-wife." I can hop on the I-net to get the latest news, sports and weather.

Did I just say hop on?

PAIN

The following entry is a recounting of the day's events on Saturday, March 11, 2006. The entries are out of synch in regards to the timeline:

I awaken to an unbearable pain in my right leg at 3:30 a.m. today. Check that, EXCRUCIATING!

I popped two Vicodin at 6:30 a.m. to alleviate the pain. No results. I am reminded what Brydon had told me. I keep his words alive every time I pop those pills. I wound up taking five of those pills with my last pill taken at 6:00 p.m. No results. No relief. Why don't these pills do what they are supposed to do?

When I urinate, it is only a trickle. The pain is too intense. I try to stand. I try to sit. Nothing but a trickle if I am lucky. I have the urge, but I cannot purge. Yes, it sounds funny by saying that but it is not a good sign as far as I am concerned.

Speaking of that part of a man's anatomy, I now have erectile dysfunction due to my sciatica. It's not working. Viagra? Not in my lifetime! Either I can do it naturally(?) or not at all. Figures.

One of the side effects of Vicodin is constipation. I have not had a "#2" today. This concerns me. I am contemplating Ex-Lax or any other over the counter stool softener. If it ain't one thing it is another!

All I had to eat today was a plain wheat bagel from Brueggers that I bought last Saturday, March 4. NO RICE!

I couldn't take a catnap in fear of awakening in a different kind of "water bed."

I "walk" to the closet to get out my Thermalite mattress pad that I use for my camping trips. Blowing it up only intensifies my agony. I lie on it on the livingroom floor. I prop my legs on either the chair or the ottoman trying to find a comfortable position. No relief.

Every breath is accompanied with a moan of pain. Check that, groan.

Evening comes. I am in my bed around 8:00 p.m. I am writhing in pain. The heating pad does not provide relief.

I am contemplating calling 911 for an ambulance ride to the nearest ER. I pack some clothes in my athletic duffel bag. I crawl to the door to unlock it. I put my cellphone, glasses, bottle of Vicodin, wallet and apartment keys in my fleece jacket with zippered pockets. So if the paramedics have any questions, I have the answers in my jacket pocket. If the ER staff asks if I there is anyone to contact, my cellphone has the answers. I am lying on the floor with my land line phone. All I have to do is hit 9-1-1.

I had called Kindra this morning to tell her I am in pain. I called her because she had the same epidural procedures I am going through. I leave a voicemail message telling her of my symptoms. I need self-assurance. I call her again around 8:30 p.m. I don't remember. She offers to take me to emergency. She tells me to call the on-call nurse at my hospital.

She arrives to pick me up and we drive up Bristol to locate the hospital. We drive to the entrance and she drops me off while she finds a place to park.

I report to the window and I am handed paperwork to fill out. I stand. Sitting is not an option. Besides, there are a lot of people in the waiting area.

There is a small Hispanic boy crying in pain from his elbow. I wish I could cry with him. I could but it will be lace with profanity.

I am summoned for triage. Blood pressure, temperature, what the hell if bothering me. I am asked to return to the lounge are until a space in the ER becomes available.

Dr. Choi is my attending physician. Good doctor. He prescribes Flexeril and Dilaudid. The nurse administers the pill and the shot in the arm. Whoa. This stuff is potent! The doctor returns to check up on me after the shot takes effect. I am feeling no pain at this stage.

Kindra and I leave the hospital around 11:30 p.m. She drops me off and I ask her to call me when she returns home safely. She calls and then I retire for the evening. Check that! For the morning. It is 1:30 when I finally fall asleep. I have been awake for 22 hours.

To all you bloggers out there: If you have a friend like Kindra consider yourselves very lucky that there a few good people out there willing to go above and beyond. I owe her big time. She has been there for me in my time of need and now it is my duty to reciprocate.

EPIDURAL NO. 2

The second of three the epidurals. Here are just a few of my thoughts. This blog entry has been in the making for the past two weeks. Sorry, there are no pictures.

I have been in excruciating pain in my right buttock and groin area whenever I stand or sit.

My doctor upgraded my Vicodin prescription to "extra strength" at my request. Even this provides only "temporary" relief. My tolerance for pain is very high, but such is not the case right now.

My desert trip to Agua Caliente with Kindra was a relief to get out of the house. The small hike did wonders for my mental well-being. It was nice to get outdoors again. I was ever so careful not to stumble or slip. The pain haunted my weekend. The ride down and back was uneventul for some reason. I did not experience any discomfort.

My parents call to check up on me daily. My father had a herniated disc when he was in the Army. He has metal pins in his back and the scars to prove it. My father's surgery was in 1968 and I know there has been great strides in treatment of herniated discs since then. He knows my pain. My mother worries to the point of aggravating me. "Mom, I am an adult...I will be just fine...I will be careful...Mom, please, don't worry about me!" I have the greatest parents in the world. I love them both.

At the start of the year I weighed 183 pounds. I am now down to 173. I attribute my weight loss to muscular atrophy due to inactivity. My leg muscles are not as firm and strong. I haven't ridden in more than a month. This time last year I rode for over 870 miles. This year? Only 124. I haven't ridden my bike since January 27.

I haven't hiked as much either. This time last year I hiked over 180 miles and this year I have hiked 29 miles.

The news about going to hike Mt. Whitney again has given me hope. First things first. First I must get better, then I will proceed with the training. I have five months to prepare. I can only imagine the jubilation I will experience while at the top of that 14,497 foot piece of 60 million year-old granite outcropping in the eastern Sierra Nevada.

I can accept the fact that I may not make it to the top. Getting to the top is optional and getting down is mandatory. I do not want to be a burden on my friends. I have been to the summit three times, but I want my friends to experience their chance of a lifetime. They worry about my well-being. I tell them not to worry. I will help them get to the top.

I have paid my $15 to hike Whitney to secure my spot on the team and I am going to do it! I have made camping reservations at Lone Pine Campground and hotel reservations at the one of the hotels.

Showers and dressing up to go to work are discomforting. It is very difficult just to put on my right sock and clip my toenails. It just sucks the wind right out of me and there is a groan with a few profane words. It hurts to cough or sneeze.

Ice and heat therapy provide only temporary relief, too. However, it is part of my daily regimen. An ounce of prevention...

Coming to work seems to agonize my condition. (Who doesn't experience this whenever they come to work!) Sitting down is not good. I have to constantly stand and move around ever so gently. Driving can be a challenge during the accelerating and braking with the right leg. I only live three miles from work, but they are the longest three miles.

I hear stories from my co-workers and friends who view this blog who have also had to endure what I am enduring right now. Steroid shots, surgery, acupuncture, orthopedists, neurologists, physical therapy are some of the many their suggestions and experiences. They feel my pain. They can see my pain.

I see people jogging, riding and hiking. Oh I wish. Someday I will again.

I must say that this "pain" is more tolerable than the "wretching" over the last couple of years.

What if I don't get better? What if I do need surgery? So be it.

What if I am confined to a wheelchair for the rest of my life? So be it. I get to park in those blue spaces with a blue placard dangling from my rearview mirror! My wheelchair will be narrower and lighter with with knobby tires! I may be limited due to terrain features, but that ain't gonna stop me from trying to "hike" the trails! I know I am not the only one who has these same ideas! I believe there is already a wheelchair designed just for offroading! Imagine that!

To Mom and Dad, MJ, Kindra, Joe, Garv, Kandy, Amy, Bruin Dave and Jane, Kathy and Brydon, Rhonda, Daphne, Horacio, Jonathan, Karen, Bob, Mariana: I want thank you for the support and advice. PMA - positive mental attitude.

I did not request permission to give up.

WORLD'S EASIEST QUIZ

Passing requires 4 correct answers. The answers are not as obvious as they seem. These are not trick questions. Answers to follow in a later blog. Have fun finding the answers!


1) How long did the Hundred Years War last?


2) Which country makes Panama hats?


3) From which animal do we get catgut?


4) In which month do Russians celebrate the October Revolution?


5) What is a camel’s hair brush made of?


6) The Canary Islands in the Pacific are named after what animal?


7) What was King George VI’s first name?


8) What color is a purple finch?


9) Where are Chinese gooseberries from?

IN MEMORY OF PAUL DONALDSON

It has been one month since my very good friend Paul passed away.

I am sure God has been convinced to go 1040EZ this tax season.

I am sure God has given Paul a lot of pointers about golf.

I am sure God has plenty of Tums, Rolaids, and Pepto-Bismol after eating Paul's infamous chili.

I am sure they have one hell of a softball team, too!

I am sure they will all be watching the Chino Air Show from a very advantageous position.