OT io io and Walldiver - I admire both of you greatly for your climbing experiences.
I remember from reading a few books (Into Thin Air, etc...) how hard it is on one's body. I think I remember some ridiculous % that the brain shrinks at very high altitudes. And the risk of HACE and HAPE would be tremendous concerns I would think.
Just curious about how you view the health risks associated with mountain climbing... it strikes me as a pursuit that is very hard on the human body... Aiming4.