Doctor's 'unforgettable' Mount Everest trek

Sydney Adventist Hospital anaesthetist Dr Gurdial Singh has gone above and beyond to raise money – literally.

In November 2024 he trekked to Everest Base Camp, raising essential funds to upgrade the Simulation Centre at New South Wales' largest private hospital, also known as the San.

Part of the Wahroonga facility's Clinical Education Centre, it provides life-like scenarios where medical students, nurses, and doctors can practice and perfect their skills in a safe, controlled environment.

After arriving in Nepal's capital Kathmandu, Dr Singh found his flight to Lukla – the gateway for trekkers attempting to climb Everest – had been diverted, so he drove six hours to Ramechhap airport.

After more delays due to bad weather he finally landed in Lukla, famous for being one of the most dangerous airports in the world. The mountainous terrain, high elevation, short runway and thin air make for some hair-raising landings.

Dr Singh's trek began covering eight kilometres along the bank of the Dudhkoshi River, staying the night in Phakding (2,650 metres above sea level) to acclimatise to the altitude. 

The following day he climbed through the Monjo pine forest, crossing several suspension bridges, including the one named after pioneering Mount Everest climber Sir Edmund Hillary, to reach Namche (altitude 3,440m), the biggest sherpa village in Nepal. 

"Each of the stops along the way reveals a piece of Nepal's rich cultural tapestry," Dr Singh said.

"Standing at the foothills of the mighty Everest, the highest pinnacle on Earth, is an experience that is unforgettable."

Dr Gurdial Singh (right) raised thousands of dollars for Sydney Adventist Hospital with his 'Marching for Mannequins' trek to Mount Everest Base Camp

Reflecting on his achievement, Dr Singh said the trek required "grit, determination and preparation".

"But all the hard work was worth it, witnessingthe awe-inspiring sunset over Everest in person at 5,500m from Kalapathar," he said.

Dr Singh has so far raised over $18,000 for the Simulation Centre via the San Foundation with his Marching for Mannequins campaign.

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