The family of Joshua Cheruiyot Kirui, a Kenyan mountaineer who tragically passed away on Mt. Everest last week, has made the poignant decision to leave his body on the mountain. Kirui, aged 40, was attempting to achieve a remarkable feat—reaching the summit without supplementary oxygen, aspiring to be the first African to do so.
Kirui met his end just 48 meters (160 feet) below Everest’s peak, after falling into a crevasse along with his Nepali guide, Nawang Sherpa, who remains missing. Considering the extreme risk involved in retrieving his body from such a high altitude, Kirui’s family decided against it.
“Retrieving his body from that high up would be risky for the rescue team. The family does not wish to endanger any life,” they expressed in a statement.
After extensive consultations, this heart-wrenching decision was reached, recognizing both the dangers and the significant cost involved in such an operation. The retrieval effort would have required over Ksh31.5 million ($190,000 or £150,000) and a team of about eight people. Given these factors, many families, like Kirui’s, choose to leave their loved ones on the mountain. Nearly 200 of the 330 climbers who have perished on Everest remain there.
Cheruiyot Kirui: A Life Dedicated to Mountains
Cheruiyot Kirui was a seasoned mountaineer with an undeniable passion for the mountains. A banker by profession, he took leave from his “regular 8 to 5” job to pursue this daring expedition, a journey closely followed by many in Kenya. He frequently posted updates, sharing his experiences and preparations with his followers.
Despite the tragic end, his family takes comfort in knowing that Kirui rests in a place he deeply cherished.
“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,”
his family shared
Preparations and Determination
Kirui’s last Instagram post reflected his meticulous preparation and unwavering determination. He outlined the extensive measures he had taken to combat the extreme conditions he would face without supplementary oxygen:
- Hands: Heated gloves and mittens with spare batteries.
- Feet: Two pairs of heated socks with spare batteries.
- Medication: Nifedipine for HAPE, Dexamethasone for HACE, and Acetazolamide.
He also had an emergency oxygen supply, provided by his guide, Nawang Sherpa, in case of critical situations, acknowledging the potential risks with poignant foresight.
Memorial Services
Memorial services for Kirui will be held in Nairobi and in his hometown of Chepterit village in the Rift Valley region. His adventurous spirit and dedication to mountaineering have left an indelible mark on those who followed his journey.
Climbing Mt. Everest is an endeavor fraught with peril, even for the most seasoned climbers. Most ascents occur in April and May when the weather is most favorable. Despite the inherent dangers, Kirui’s passion and determination drove him to pursue his dream, leaving behind a legacy of bravery and perseverance.
Cheruiyot Kirui’s story is one of courage and commitment, a testament to the human spirit’s capacity to push boundaries and strive for greatness, even in the face of overwhelming odds. His memory will continue to inspire those who dare to dream and those who follow in his footsteps.
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