Jason Bernard Kennison, an Australian man from Perth, who successfully climbed Mount Everest despite overcoming physical challenges, tragically passed away upon his return from the summit. According to The Guardian, Kennison became unresponsive at the summit and subsequently succumbed to the situation. This unfortunate incident marks the 10th fatality during this climbing season on the renowned peak, as reported by AFP.Jason Bernard Kennison, aged 40, tragically passed away on Friday due to health complications, as confirmed by Asian Trekking to AFP. Kennison, who had previously survived a serious car crash in 2006, was participating in an expedition organised by Asian Trekking at the time of his unfortunate demise.According to The Guardian, Kennison began displaying unusual behaviour starting from the south summit of Mount Everest. Concerned about his condition, two Sherpa guides provided assistance and accompanied him down to the balcony area, situated at an altitude of 8,400 metres above sea level. However, when Kennison declined to continue moving, the guides made their way back to camp four.image: facebookFollowing his condition deteriorating at the summit, Kennison was transported to the Balcony area, located below the peak, as confirmed by Dawa Steven Sherpa, the head of Asian Trekking.Due to the depletion of their oxygen cylinders, the decision was made to descend to Camp 4 with the intention of returning later with fresh oxygen cylinders to rescue Kennison, stated Sherpa.Due to adverse weather conditions and strong winds, the Sherpa guides were unable to return to the Balcony area to bring Kennison down, resulting in his unfortunate demise at that location. His family expressed their sorrow, stating that while he had successfully achieved his goal of reaching the summit, he tragically did not return home.In a heartfelt Facebook post, his family described him as the epitome of courage and adventure, expressing their deep sense of loss. Kennisons journey was truly remarkable, considering that almost 17 years ago, he was informed that he might never regain the ability to walk. In 2006, a car accident caused severe spinal cord injuries and led him into a state of despair and despondency.On his fundraising page on Just Giving, Kennison openly shared his personal journey, explaining that his decision to climb Mount Everest was born out of his experiences undergoing a spinal procedure three years ago. This procedure marked a new chapter in his rehabilitation process, igniting his determination to conquer Everest.In an interview with 7News prior to his departure for Everest, Kennison expressed his personal perspective, stating, “I have always pushed myself to overcome internal challenges. Everest has become a powerful symbol for me, representing the triumph over those obstacles and the pursuit of fulfilment.”According to Nepals tourism department, approximately 450 climbers have successfully scaled Mount Everest this season. The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade confirmed that they are offering consular support to the family of the deceased Australian individual in Nepal.This year, the authorities have issued 478 permits to foreign climbers, who each paid a fee of $11,000. With the majority of climbers requiring a guide, it was anticipated that over 900 individuals—a record number—would attempt to reach the summit during the season, which concludes in early June.
