This is the inspirational story of climber Nick Allen, who went from outdoorsman to wheelchair-bound with multiple sclerosis to back to the life in the mountains he loves through sheer determination and grit.
This book follows Nick’s first faltering steps back into the back country and his decision to set up a trust so other MS sufferers can have outdoor experiences.
And it follows his most astounding adventure yet: trekking to base camp at Everest, and — at considerable risk to his health — conquering the Himalayan peak, Imja Tse.
Table of Contents:
RUSHING TO BASE CAMP 8
UMUKARIKARI AND THE URCHIN TOPS 22
THE BIG CRASH 46
BISCUITS AND GRAVY 68
LAND ROVERS AND DAILY RATIONS 94
GRACE 116
BALL PASS AND ENDLESS POSSIBILITY 154
INDIA AND THE ART OF CHUNDERING 196
NEPAL AND THE ART OF RESTFUL STRIVING 258
AFTERWORD: MASTERING MOUNTAINS 294
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS 297
MAP 301
About the Author :
Nick Allen is a passionate tramper and climber. Diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis at the age of 25, Nick thought his climbing dreams were over. Six years on and with the help of rehabilitation specialists, Nick has been able to get back outdoors, climbing and tramping. Nick is also passionate about helping others and has set up a scholarship fund, administered by Multiple Sclerosis NZ, to help others with MS overcome the obstacles that prevent them from getting outdoors. You can find out more Mastering Mountains at masteringmountains.org. Nick lives in Palmerston North.
Review :
‘A frank, insightful and compelling account of climbing with multiple sclerosis. Nick’s writing is eloquent; his drive is inspiring. This is a remarkable book.’ — Jan Arnold, New Zealand Everest climber, mother and doctor
‘A beautifully told and moving story about physical, mental and spiritual wellness, the restorative power of the natural environment, and the journey towards freedom through mountaineering.’ — Laurence Fearnley, author of The Hut Builder
