It's been a painful few weeks for me after developing sciatica due to a bulging disc in my lower back. Whilst initially working through it, it came to a point I had to admit defeat and take a proper enforced rest period.
I've been quite fortunate with my back in general as after having two previous fractures, one from a traffic accident and one from a climbing fall, it hasnt't really given me much bother since. Unfortunately, things felt pretty bad for a while as even a walk to the end of the street became a mission. Thankfully and hopefully, things seem to be slowly on the mend now.
We're lucky to have the excellent Lochaber Clinic in Fort William and with some treatment from the Osteopath Geoff there, I've managed to continue talking small steps towards recovery.
Also, my friend and colleague Steve, who has been through the mill and under the surgeon's knife with a similar but more serious problem, has given me some sound advice too.
In the meantime I have to thank all of our associate staff who've kept things going whilst I've been out of action.
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| My last day on the hill for a while was a smashing day with Andy and Leanne on Ledge Route |
Connor headed out with Tom and Pam on the classic Buachaille Etive Mor in Glencoe
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| pic- C. Holdsworth |
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| pic- C. Holdsworth |
Steve tackled the CMD Arete and Ben Nevis with Tony and Cameron in some challenging conditions!
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| pic- S. Holmes |
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| pic- S. Holmes |
Dave had a superb day introducing Dan to outdoor climbing in the fantastic Glen Nevis!
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| pic- D. Buckett |
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| pic- D. Buckett |
The sun didn't last too long though and Dave and Zareff managed a quick ascent of Ledge Route and on to Ben Nevis in some pretty heavy rain- a summer monsoon!
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| pic- D. Buckett |
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| pic- D. Buckett |
Andy had a super fast trip on Ben Nevis with Matt and had time to show off Steall Falls as well as the summit of Ben Nevis- a fully packed day!
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| pic- A. Hague |
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| pic- A. Hague |
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| pic- A. Hague |
Andy was also out with Ian and Luke on the classic CMD. The mountain teased them with a few glimpses through the clouds but that chaps made a great time despite the damp conditions.
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| pic- A. Hague |
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| pic- A. Hague |
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| pic- A. Hague |
It's back out to the hills for me tomorrow to test things out so fingers crossed this will be a step in the right direction!
