Met with Ian Taylor this evening

I met Ian Taylor and the people from the Tropical Medical Bureau at their premises on Grafton Street this evening. Aileen was also there and we had the opportunity to ask all the last minute questions about the trip to EBC.

Probably the best result for me tonight is the fact that they do not see the need for Diamox or Malarone. I don't like taking medication unless it's absolutely necessary so this was good news. Ian went through the trek, the various stages, acclimatisation and how he minimises the risk of Acute Altitude Sickness by taking extra days on the ascent to allow the body to adjust to the altitude. 

He spoke about the trip to and from Lukla Airport and how standards have improved in recent years thus reducing the number of crashes. The pilots use sight as opposed to instruments to navigate their way through the Himalayas and into the short runway at Lukla. This airport has been labelled No. 1 Most Extreme and Dangerous Airport in the World. That in itself can give you a rush not to mention the thrill of walking to the base camp in 9 days and making the return trek in 3 days. 

Back in the gym tomorrow to increase stamina and push ahead with more interval training. Making progress each day. My excitement level has reached new heights after this evening.

Ian also spoke about his treks to Kilimanjaro for the benefit of another person there today. It made me think again about returning there in the coming years to finish what I started in December 2012 but ended in tragedy on January 2nd. 2013. I think I have to go back..............

Video compiled by Randall Liles and shared Feb 26th 2018: https://youtu.be/9LamqUQW0nA