Terry responded to our questions by e-mail from his home in Oregon in December 2006.
How has Everest changed you (or not)? If this is not your first time on the mountain, how was it different this time?
I don't think that it has changed me a whole lot, really. It seems like everyone else around me expects that summiting would have affected me in some profound way . . . I feel like the same ol' guy.
The film captured how you felt immediately after summiting. How do you feel now? Is there a letdown after such an intense experience?
Summiting was, of course, a memorable moment. No letdown, just happy to be back in one piece. It's a challenge to get to the top, but even more challenging to make it back unscathed.
How has your experience affected your relationships with others (at home and those you met on the mountain)? Are loved ones concerned about you? Why?
To those that have known me best, it really hasn't changed a thing. We rarely talk about Everest, even with the climbing friends.
Will you go back to Everest? Why?
Maybe, but not with the sole intent to climb. I'd be happy to help with a local health development or service project if one becomes available. Of course, always happy to be there for my friends who are heading back. Always happy to help Russ out if he needs it.
Are you planning any new adventures?
Right now the only thing I'm planning is a treacherous barefoot walk through the snow to the hot tub.
