From The Shira Plateau, we continued to the east up a ridge, passing the junction towards the peak of Kibo. As we continued our direction changed to south east towards Lava tower, called “sharks tooth.” Shortly after, we come to the second junction, which brings us to the Arror Glacier at an altitude of 16,000ft. We continue down to Barranco at an altitude of 13,000ft. Although we ended the day at the same elevation as we started, this day was important for acclimatization and helped body prepare for summit day.
This was a very very tough day for me. Although I felt very strong and energy the actual climb seemed to play havoc on my muscles. Parkinson’s was playing a cruel game with me. Several times my muscles felt like a tire that had quickly been deflated and would not however hard I tried to inflate them with positive thoughts, gut renching yelling, concentration on pushing through, meditation, refuel of water and chocolate, many Bibi61 give me one more minutes…..inflate you SOB…don’t give out on me now….my throat is dry and sore, I am freezing cold, my face is burnt…..for goodness sake…give me more, you always have!!!!!!! Kilimanjaro looked down at me, smiled at Parkinson’s and seemed to say “who’s the boss?. I refuse to be taken down the mountain in that stretcher… I refuse to give in.
Augustine “Bibi61, what is your mind telling you?”
Dinner, rest, three layers plus socks, beanie and gloves. Chris (Parkinson’s buddy) gave me some encouragement..we both get it, we both know the effects and what it takes, we both know that others do not fully understand unless you live with us. Earl prepared my sleeping cocoon and brought me something to eat…. I fell fast asleep to the sounds of Imagine.
Next Barranco Wall a 950ft volcanic rock!!!