Once again proving that diabetes doesn’t have to put a stop to adventure, Lifesystems-sponsored climber Jerry Gore has successfully completed a sub-8 hour ascent of the Eiger’s treacherous North Face. Partnering with rising climbing superstar and BMC Ambassador Calum Musket, the pair took on the iconic route in order to raise funds for diabetes charity Insulin for Life. A highly challenging mountain that has claimed the lives of over 80 climbers since 1938, the Eiger’s concave North Face is one of the world’s most revered climbs. Renowned for its combination of poor rock and wild, unpredictable weather, the Eiger’s face has become increasingly unstable as its ice fields melt away to reveal crumbling limestone. Taking on the challenge at the end of the mountain’s recommended climbing season, Gore and Muskett were confronted with a highly dangerous and rapidly melting face. Diagnosed with diabetes 14 years ago in 2001, Jerry refused to allow his condition to put a premature end to his 35 year climbing career. He has worked with our expert product team here at Lifesystems to create a specially-developed set of products that enable him to monitor his blood sugar levels and inject insulin safely on the mountain. Despite extensive preparation, Jerry faced a dangerous drop in his blood sugar levels mid-way through the climb and had to battle through faintness and dizziness in order to make it to the top. In the face of these challenging conditions, the pair were still able to successfully summit the mountain and return to the valley without incident. Completed on the 22 nd April 2015, this latest climb follows on from Gore’s recent Wall of Paine expedition which saw him and a team of climbers attempt the inhospitable South Tower of Paine in Patagonia. Both expeditions have been part of Jerry’s Insulin Challenge – a mission to provide support and crucial medical equipment to diabetic youngsters in emerging countries. The Eiger climb has already raised over £20,000, enough to give hope and life back to many families that desperately need it. Jerry’s Insulin Challenge works closely with global charity, Insulin for Life. An organisation committed to distributing essential medial kit to diabetics in need around the world. If you would like to donate to the cause visit http://www.insulinforlife.org/help.
