Summit: 3:40 p.m., May 10, 1996 - 29,028 Feet Summary and Analysis

Fischer reaches the summit at 3:40 p.m. on May 10 to find Lopsang waiting for him. Fischer radios base camp that all his clients have reached the top, and that he is very tired. Hall is also at the summit, waiting for Hansen. Fischer complains frequently that he does not feel good, something that is unusual for him. Lopsang gives him some tea, but he only drinks a little. Worried about his friend, Lopsang insists that they begin the descent immediately. Fischer goes first. Although he still has oxygen in his tank, Fischer removes his mask and does not use it.

The others on the summit also start down except for Hall, who continues to wait for Hansen. It is now two hours past Hall's turn around time, and many will wonder...