Having been forced down from the Annapurnas and locked out of the mountains, following 8 challenging months, things were looking up. Embarking upon the most technical test of my vision, physical and mental strength, when an avalanche hit.
Having been forced down from the Annapurnas and locked out of the mountains, following 8 challenging months, things were looking up. Embarking upon the most technical test of my vision, physical and mental strength, when an avalanche hit.
Once upon a chilly February morning, two eager friends raced the sun rising in Banff National Park in search of a frozen waterfall to scale.....the plot quickly twist and the happily ever after will take a minute.
The world’s 3rd highest peak, my 3rd 8000er, was going to be different. The stories my mind was telling were daunting yet deep within knew that there was potential for greatness to surface from change. It did.
Climbing atop the 7th highest mountain on earth, Dhaulagiri got off to a jagged start. My second 8 000 er was far tougher mentally than physically. I climb on.
As I prepare to climber beyond 8 000m, I reflect upon the healing I have found in the himals of Nepal, and how I strive to personify their characteristics.
A glimpse into my first expedition beyond 8 000 m, to the true summit of Manaslu
Grief is an enigma. Ups and downs, twists and turns, it hides in crevices before it surfaces again without warning.
Once upon a chilly February morning, two eager friends raced the sun rising in Banff National Park in search of a frozen waterfall to scale.....the plot quickly twist and the happily ever after will take a minute.
Climbing atop the 7th highest mountain on earth, Dhaulagiri got off to a jagged start. My second 8 000 er was far tougher mentally than physically. I climb on.
The world’s 3rd highest peak, my 3rd 8000er, was going to be different. The stories my mind was telling were daunting yet deep within knew that there was potential for greatness to surface from change. It did.
As I prepare to climber beyond 8 000m, I reflect upon the healing I have found in the himals of Nepal, and how I strive to personify their characteristics.
A glimpse into my first expedition beyond 8 000 m, to the true summit of Manaslu
Grief is an enigma. Ups and downs, twists and turns, it hides in crevices before it surfaces again without warning.
Room for anything but mindfulness does not exist when maneuvering amidst renowned technical terrain, anchor after endless anchor with frigid fingers and without depth perception, one breath at a time I climbed in body and mind.
Ama Dablam comes with an extensive packing list; a strong mental game tops the most essential gear as she leaves no space for a wandering mind. Most variables on the mountain are beyond my control yet which direction the voices take is up to me.
With the weight in my mind heavier than that of my pack, I teetered on the trail and in thought. Rescuing myself from fleeing feelings of failure, success became personal.
Among a panorama of giants in the Imja Valley, insight was stronger than a tempting dance between doubt and dark thoughts as I climbed Island Peak.
Backcountry skiing among the highest of the Himalayas felt blissfully surreal. In an instant, the peaks were padlocked and an internal storm was triggered.
Pneumonia could have knocked me down. Instead it led to higher trails, new connections and a chapter more dynamic than mountain weather.
A 10-day Vipassana sit was a whole new endurance experience that created new thought patterns and built strength in stillness.
With ravishing waterfalls among enchanting geothermal mountains, trails taught lessons in geological contrasts and the warmth of Icelanders.
Making the most of what I can do, I checked in with my medical team in Denver and hopped out to trails throughout Colorado. Arizona and Utah.
Spectacular trails throughout the Andes, Peru moved mountains within.
My Andes’ adventures, the pearls of Patagonia and colourful gems of Jujuy made for a 6 week magical story of growth.
Running ridges above Wanaka, dodging clouds and chasing rainbows, beech forests, mountain peaks, glacial lakes, all mythical, magical, Kiwi memories.
A concoction of uncomforts blended smoothly to make for a most memorable run around the world’s 8th highest mountain.
Registering to race was huge. I started and finished with a smile as big as the Himalayas yet I was not finished with Nepal.
With more than 11 000 m of elevation gain over 220 km, running the Annapurna Circuit reflected the journey of my recovery.
Introducing myself to India and the Himalayas by way of running was a challenging first date. I look forward to trying a second time.
A gem in the Julian Alps, with thousands of trails and hundreds of peaks Slovenia had me striding and smiling.
A stunning Italian backdropped yet I struggled on foot and in mind. Rocky came along for a rugged run in the Dolomites.
Building confidence on the trails and in my body, I reflect with gratitude following a month in France.
Just 6 months out of hospital, my first real trail running since the accident provided an opportunity to challenge demons and discover strength.
Tom Stevens says:
Jill, the video is amazing. Your writing is heartfelt and moving. You have a unique voice. If it would help to talk to someone I would be glad to help in any way I can. 24/7 I’m here.
Jill Wheatley says:
Knowing you are watching, reading, and following along are all gifts that I am fortunate to have Tom. Thankful to know you welcome connection at all the times in between ~ Your friendship is heartfelt.
MelissaBeaury says:
Such beautiful words to depict your feelings. I am crying. Thank you.
Jill Wheatley says:
Ah Mel ~ thankful tears seeing your name on my screen and your heartfelt ‘hug’ in a handful of words.
So thankful our trails connected and look forward to the day we can adventure together again. Til then, sending much strength and love your way …and to your brother, Dean and extended family as well x
Twylla & Drew Alexander says:
Speaking as parents who are the same generation as your father … and speaking as parents who are blessed with a daughter who shares your spirit …. we totally agree that “Climbing on is what Dad would want. Sit on the deck, have a beer, raise a glass: no fuss.” Sending you sympathy, love and best wishes as you continue on your climb.
Jill Wheatley says:
Thank you for such a heartfelt connection Twylla and Drew ~ My smile lights thinking of you, your encouraging words and my Dad watching down on us all with a grin.
Gratitude, love and light,
j
Joanne Valin says:
Such a heart rending post, Jill. I am so sorry for your loss and so sure your father is with you at every moment and every step of your climb, this one and all the ones to come. Lots of love from here.
Jill Wheatley says:
What a beautiful message from a beautiful friend. Thank you for that hug that I will continue to tap into as I work to navigate the mountains of my mind. Heartfelt in the Himalayas Jo ~ love and light , j x
Meri says:
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. This is a beautiful post.
Jill Wheatley says:
So thoughtful of you to make the time to read and reach out Meri ~ I am still working through part 2 and sincerely hope you can connect with it as well. Sincerely appreciate you following along ~ Namaste, jill