“One day I’ll wish I was back here.” A phrase Joe Higgins said to himself often during a month in Nepal, even in the moments he didn’t fully believe it. The goal was to climb 6,000m peaks in the Himalayas, starting with Mera Peak. After reaching 6,400m, deep snow and buried fixed lines forced the team to turn back. No summit, but an important reminder that safety always comes before ego. The trip brought huge physical and mental challenges. Joe battled giardiasis for 11 days, and the cold, isolation and altitude pushed him to his limits. As a heart transplant recipient over 10 years on, the expedition was also a reminder of just how far he’s come. Summiting Lobuche East at 6,119m, standing at Everest Base Camp, and seeing Everest, Lhotse and Pumori up close were experiences years in the making. To Joe’s understanding, Lobuche East may also mark the highest heart transplant ascent in the Himalayas. Incredible achievement Joe, well done 👏