This is to announce the rebirth of Pheriche Hospital in the Khumbu region of Nepal as a site of research, once again, into medical aspects of altitude related illnesses.

Built in 1974 by the Japanese, one day from Everest's Base and the highest hospital in the world, Pheriche for several years played a major part in the research programme into altitude sickness. Peter Hackett and many others, whilst serving as physicians at the Clinic made important advances in this field.

Falling into disrepair over the last few years with no light, heat, sanitation or insulation, it was no longer conducive, nor capable, of supporting research.

Over the last two years, though, the hospital has been enlarged and transformed by the efforts of the small British charity, The Everest Memorial Trust. Power in the form of a large hybrid wind generator, together with solar panels, provide a sufficiency for lights and equipment and an oxygen concentrator capable of running 24 hours a day, which has largely replaced the use of the Gamow bag and cylinder oxygen. Running water has been piped in. Hot water, and even central heating is provided via solar liquid arrays and a large underground heat store. Even a flush lavatory provides the alternative to the dark walk and the long drop!

The building has been doubled in size and now boasts a consulting/examination room, a small ward, three double bedrooms for staff, together with a large day room. The kitchen is refurbished and space in the form of two rooms, one a bedroom, has been provisionally set aside for anyone wishing to undertake research, and thereby to breath life into the building again.

In the future it is hoped that with larger and more amenable living accommodation the existing seasons that the clinic will be open will be extended from early March to the end of May and from early September through to mid December. With greater living space it will be possible to accommodate more staff/students, which in turn will allow for less restriction on personnel and more freedom to explore this beautiful land.

Prior to the Maoist incursions and September 11th disaster in the US, many thousands of trekkers, together with their entourages passed the door of Pheriche, a wonderful reservoir of volunteers for any study. The daily lectures on the dangers of AMS at both Pheriche and the neighbouring village, Dingboche, would allow for ready recruitment. If any physician presently contemplating a research project on the subject or for any possible PhD student looking for a venue to perform research, this would be an ideal opportunity and location. For further details as to the facilities available, please contact: