The family of Joshua Cheruiyot Kirui, a Kenyan climber who died on Mt. Everest last week, has decided that his body will remain on the mountain. Kirui, 40, died while attempting to reach the summit without supplementary oxygen, a feat he hoped would make him the first African to do so.
Kirui died after falling into a crevasse just 48 meters (160 feet) below the peak, along with his Nepali guide, Nawang Sherpa, who is still missing. His family determined that retrieving his body from such a high altitude would be too dangerous.
“Retrieving his body from that high up would be risky for the rescue team. The family does not wish to endanger any life,” they said in a statement.
This decision was made after extensive consultations and careful consideration of all circumstances.
Cheruiyot Kirui was a seasoned mountaineer known for his love of the mountains. His daring expedition, which he expected to take “more than a month from a regular 8 to 5 banker” was closely followed by many in Kenya. And with frequent updates posted by fellow climbers.
Despite the tragic outcome, his family finds solace in knowing he is resting in a place he loved.
“Cheruiyot had a deep love for the mountains and they loved him in return. We find solace in knowing that he is resting in his happy place,” the family added.
The decision also took into account the significant cost and risk involved in retrieving bodies from Everest. It would have cost over Ksh31.5 million ($190,000 or £150,000) and required a team of about eight people to carry out the mission. Most families who lose loved ones on Everest choose to leave them there. Nearly 200 of the 330 climbers who have died on the mountain remain there.
Cheruiyot Kirui Last Instagram Post
Kirui had prepared extensively for the climb. He had emergency oxygen support from Sherpa and an emergency evacuation plan in place. Before his climb, he expressed confidence in his ability to summit without additional oxygen.
In his last Instagram post, he shared his determination and readiness for the challenge that “a no-oxygen attempt comes with.”
He outlined the measures he took against the risks, including;
“Cold: Without oxygen, one is much more susceptible to frostbite. So I have:
- Hands: Pair of heated gloves, pair of heated mittens with a spare set of batteries.
- Feet: Two pairs of heated socks with a spare set of batteries.
Meds: I’m susceptible to HAPE so I’m armed with Nifedipine. For HACE I have Dexamethasone. And Acetazolamide.”
The banker, further faced with a premonition of the risks ahead, added that his Nepali guide, Nawang Sherpa would ferry an emergency bottle of oxygen to be used;
“If I go lights out or if I go bananas
If I’m time barred
Unfavorable weather
Body limit reached: when I realize I’m no superman”
Memorial Service
Memorial services will be held in Nairobi and in Kirui’s hometown of Chepterit village in the Rift Valley region. As a banker by profession, Kirui’s adventurous spirit and dedication to mountaineering have left a lasting impression on those who followed his journey.
Climbing Mt. Everest is known to be extremely difficult and perilous, even for the most experienced climbers. Most ascents occur in April and May when weather conditions are most favorable.
Despite the inherent risks, Kirui’s passion and determination drove him to pursue his dream, leaving behind a legacy of bravery and perseverance.
By Vivian K.