Broken ankle to skiing in 4 months!

This was Lorna, Just over four months ago in hospital in Switzerland after the accident on the NNE Ridge of the Eginner above Saas Fee. Back then we weren't sure just how much of a recovery Lorna would make, especially when you see the dramatic pictures of the external fixator and then the scars and stitches from the operations. We also have to mention the excellent work of the doctors and nurses in Visp hospital where the treatment was first class!

One of many gruesome photos that have been taken since the accident! It's hard to believe that someone would be able to stand on an ankle in this state. However, in June 2012, Lorna hopes to take part in the Cateran Yomp to walk either 22, 36 or 54 miles in 24 hours to raise money for soldiers charities. You can sponsor her here : Cateran Yomp.    



And now this! Although don't be misled. It is an amazing recovery so far, but ironically, skiing is easier than walking at the moment! Training for the Cateran Yomp may be much harder, plus we have the North East Buttress of the Ben still to do this year??? 

Glenshee, 18th December 2011

A last minute decision  meant myself and Ian headed for Glenshee today for a half days skiing. Ruth and Lorna, speant most of day between the two cafes drinking hot chocolate! Looking up the new (not yet working) Badoch Chair. However, a fantastic (half) days skiing! 

Looking across to the sunnyside.

Glorious sunshine on the way up the double poma.

Ian (in red) behind me and the Cairnwell side bathed in late sunshine too.

Ian recovering from a wipeout at the bottom of Coire Fionn. He got me back later when I did a face plant at the bottom of Butcharts!

Glas Maol poma not open yet, sadly.

The view from the Cairnwell cafe window.

New "liftie"!

Kodak moments on top of the Cairnwell T-bar.

From the top of the Cairnwell T-bar looking across to the Sunnyside.

Snow! So now the waiting game starts!

Various reports from "up north", ie guides and interested parties all commenting on the sudden build up of snow over the past couple of days. The Ben Nevis webcam currently shows whiteout conditions too.
Some wet snow falling down here in the capital to add to the excitement, but it's comparatively mild so probably won't last long.
The dilemma living over two hours away from the hills, is the planning and timing of trips and making them safe and worthwhile. Quite often in the past, we have had reports of great conditions, only to be left stuck in the lowlands due to bad road conditions! No doubt this will continue throughout this season with the next few weeks being the usual hit and miss affair. Work and weather often conspire against us, so fingers crossed for some good days in the new year!