Tough tough tough

The past couple of days have been really tough.

Until today I have felt really awful and have had to focus really hard in order to concentrate on this considerable task. Many of the group are feeling the same. Sickness has abounded in camp and we are all quite shattered.

Today however has been a much better day for me anyway and my sickness has been nowhere near as bad. We have climbed the imperious Barranco Wall today which was a real sight I can tell you. Whilst i definitely feel much better and am getting into my stride now, we still have some altitude sickness in the camp and we are all really tired. This is some bloody challenge!! Also, poor Jules slipped on the Barranco wall and she's sprained her ankle. As I write I don't know what her progrosis is as of yet. The sheer determination and mental toughness of this group is really something amazing.

Well tomorrow morning it is another tough walk to base camp and then rest up until midnight thursday night for the big one: the summit!!!

This challenge has been really tough: much tougher than I expected. And whilst I am excited still at the prospect of reaching the top - and am totally determined to do so - I must confess to feeling a litle apprehensive. I remember the 4 climbers who reached the top last time in the CYM party saying just how much harder the summit climb was than the rest, and I cannot lie to you that that creates an element of nervousness!! Having said that, I know too that the first few days this year were harder than last year and that summit night is supposed to be easier.

So boys and girls and mums and dads.....wish me luck, and all being well the next time you hear from me will be with a big 'I DID IT' at the top of the posting.