The mountain has a way of checking our soul, of challenging us on multiple levels all at once.
We met David Allen at Snowbasin this year. He was strong, fit and capable, a gym owner, former athlete and powerlifter.. He always smiled when we referred to him as “Dr. David Allen” when he would return to the base of the mountain to brand his board. (Sidenote: David’s not a “doctor” but his name sure made us think of one from a daytime soap opera.)
At the Ascent Board, we see participants multiple times. At Snowbasin, participants come through the base as many as 13 times in their quest to conquer Everest.
We didn’t think much of “Dr. David Allen” other than a guy with a great smile going home with a red hat on his head……until Colleen received a DM from him the following Tuesday……David wanted to connect with Coach Derek who had helped him on the mountain. Colleen asked him how he was feeling and made a “Doctor” joke……..His response took her back….He said……"My body feels fine, I’m a little sore but not any more than a normal workout. Emotionally I’m completely wrecked.”
David had been invited by a friend to take on what he thought would be the physical challenge of climbing 29,029 feet. He was shocked to find himself emotionally torn open by the experience and really wasn’t prepared on where to go from there.
© 2026 29029 Everesting
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