tridlette

This will probably be my only message on your board, but I just feel compelled to say something to all of you who took the time to express your thoughts and condolences. I went to elementary school with John, haven't seen him since graduation day in 1981, and I doubt he would have even known my name. Yet, I need to say thanks to the whole climbing community for their thoughtful words. My brother, who grew up in the same town as John, was left paralyzed after an anchor pulled loose on Sandia Peak and he fell 30 feet. We are thankful every day to have him still in our lives, and it is because he was rescued extremely fast by his fellow climbers. They knew exactly what to do and had the equipment, skills, and most importantly the communication equipment needed to get him off the rock in less than an hour! I know only what I have read through this thread about what happened on Sharkfin Tower, and it sounds as though immediate help probably wouldn't have made a difference to any of the three who perished. When my brother had his accident, I felt isolated from the world. No one called or wrote or stopped by to check on the family, although his wife was never left alone. But, reading this out-pouring of care and concern for a long lost classmate seems like I finally have come to peace with my brother's accident. I guess what I want to say, is that now I am sure that people really did care and worry and pray for us, even though we couldn't see you, and hear you... your prayers were answered and he has continued to lead a full life although he is physically disabled. The news of John's accident only made his hometown newspaper yesterday, and I am sure that there are many more of his childhood friends that are saddened and shocked by the loss of all three climbers. My best wishes and prayers for many successful, safe, and happy climbs to each and every one of you. Tridlette