The Good, The Bad and The Ugly

The Good:

What a couple of months! So much has happened I don't know where to begin. Really I don't....As such I am going to start with the most recent - last Saturday saw all the members of The Everest Test congregate at the Home of Cricket, Lords. For once this wasn't for a party but nonetheless a very important and entertaining day. A lot of admin and medical talks (I will come on to that later) but the best announcement of the day was that we have secured a Title Sponsor for the expedition - Nokia! When I say "we", I mean the massive efforts that the likes of Kirt has put into nailing this deal. A huge shout out must go to those involved in achievement. Joe Williams has also managed to get Bulldog Grooming on board and Vicks announced there will be Champagne on the Mountain as provided by Mumm.



We also managed to get some cricket nets in and despite a niggling back injury, I was feeling pretty confident - I just hope I can carry this confidence and form up to 5,200m!



We have also had two major events in the past month. First a stand up evening at the Comedy Store where Chris Martin managed to secure some big names to entertain a sell out crowed and secondly, High on Everest, our send off party at 24:London in the West End. Both nights were epic and managed to raise loads of dosh for our charities so a big thank you to all those involved in organising (too many to mention).



The Bad:

It is with great regret that we had the bad news last weekend that Charlie BN is no longer able to join the expedition. I won't dwell on this but needless to say Charlie has committed a huge about of effort into this adventure and been influential in all that has been good, whether is was organising a simple night out or being fundamental in getting Surrey CCC's support and helping organising the various fund raising events. This is not only a loss to the expedition, but on a person note, Charlie is a great mate and I will definitely miss him on the Mountain. I would say I will hit a six for him but since his was in Team Hillary, I don't think he would be too impressed.



The Ugly:

This could be anything from Toovey's dancing at the Send Off Party (although very impressive not to spill a single drop of beer whilst busting those moves) to my really average, 'slightly' drunken rant with (at) Neil Laughton. However, these were beaten by the images displayed by the medical team on Saturday. Whilst I am aware of the various nasties that can present themselves when travelling abroad, in all honesty, nobody wants to see the reality! I for one, will likely be more hygienic in Nepal than I have ever been before - worms are simply not an option!!!!!