5/13/2007 9:02:57 PM -- From the Contact Everest file:
    I am absolutely amazed at the Sherpa people and how much they are the backbone of every expedition in the Himalayas. Everest is “their” mountain. Every blog that I read says “we could not do it without the Sherpas”. Every story where there is someone in trouble ends up with a Sherpa saving them or helping them in some way and without any regard for their own life. I think I can connect with them in some very small way as I am a nurse and I do risk a lot every day when I care for my patients. And it really is a thankless job. But I am called to do it. The Sherpa people are ‘born’ into it. But they risk their life in an extreme way every day of the climbing season. My risk does not compare. There are Sherpa cooks at high camps just waiting for the teams to make their summit bids. They have had to withstand the extreme wind storms that try to destroy the high camps and I can just see them working to save all camps and not just the ones that they have been hired to take care of. That is the kind of people they are. The Sherpas that climb the mountains with the climbers are super human! They are amazing physically, psychologically and emotionally. I hope that one day I get the privilege of meeting the Sherpa people.
   
   I am really looking forward to seeing the documentary on these amazing people!
   
   Annette Stapp
   Edmond, OK, USA

5/13/2007 2:50:49 PM -- From the Contact Everest file:
    Blessings to the expedition!
   I lit incense today and honored the SuperSherpas in my prayers and wishes for good karma for the great unsung heroes of the climbing world. We are honored to now have them living among us in our beautiful Salt Lake City. Their dedication to their profession and their willingness to put their lives in danger to feed their families and allow others to attract the fame and glory is an outstanding example of selflessness-unique in our world. Thank you for attracting more attention to these "giants" of men. Please convey our heartfelt good wishes for good weather, light packs, sure feet and swift returns for the members of the team and their families. Thank you for allowing us to share their experiences.
   Nameste'!
   Sue Dyle
   Mapleton, Utah
   

5/13/2007 7:50:15 AM -- From the Contact Everest file:
    Nameste!
    I just want to send my thoughts and prayers to the Sherpa Team. I am so excited for them and I hope that their expedition will draw attention to what incredible men the Sherpas are. Sherpas are the true heroes, the true athletes that make every Everest expedition possible. My father is a climber and has climbed in the Himalayas three times. In addition, he had the privledge to climb with Apa on last year's expedition. He was even able to go to Apa's village in Thame. My father has imparted in me a great love for the Sherpa people. He says they are some of the kindest and most gentle natured people he has ever met.
    After studying the Sherpa people more, I have become very frustrated by the lack of credit they get. The Sherpas are the real heros but remain underpaid and without the credit they deserve. The Sherpas deserve worldwide recognition; they are some of the world's most elite athletes. The truth should be told. The light should be shed on these incredible men . . . The Sherpas.
   
   God bless the men on this team and their families!
   Amy Rigsby McGhee
    Chattanooga TN