Sisters trekkers experience Nepal

The magnificence of Nepal drew trekkers from Sisters.

Nepal is a powerful magnet that draws travelers from all over the world to trek and climb in the magnificent Himalayas.

In the past year, it drew Sisters teachers Rand Runco and Heather Johnson on separate trips. This summer Runco is going back -- with some students in tow.

Johnson and her husband Brandon trekked the Himalayas for three weeks this past March.

"Trekking at the start of the Khumbu Valley in the Himalayas is much like hiking on the west side of the Cascade Mountains," Heather said. "It's lush with rhododendrons and pine trees. But you're quickly reminded you're 'not in Kansas anymore' when you round a corner and standing before you is a 26,000-plus-foot mountain. The Himalayas are simply breathtaking, and no picture could serve it justice due to the fact that it is a full 360 degree panoramic view!"

Heather and her husband knew they would probably have a battle with altitude sickness. The 70-mile trek that was ahead of them had to be done in 10 days because of their time frame. Normally this trek takes 15 days or more.

Despite efforts to go very slowly and stay hydrated, they still were hit by altitude sickness.

Heather said, "Considering the fact we were in a third world country, sanitary conditions weren't the best and that contributed to our symptoms of altitude sickness, some of which include insomnia, incredible fatigue, poor circulation, muscle cramping, headaches, lack of appetite and vomiting."

The Johnsons thought that the highlight of Nepal would be to set foot on the highest mountain in the world and to meet world class climbers, but it was the Sherpa people of the Khumbu Valley that touched their hearts.

"We've been in third world countries before, but have never been more humbled in our lives," Heather said. "The Sherpa people (have) a work ethic unlike anything I had ever seen. By hand, they chisel rock forming individual stones to build their homes. Most live without electricity and water. Their only form of travel is by foot. They carry twice their weight, barefoot up the rugged trails carrying supplies, wood and stones. They utilize the land in every way imaginable.

"They have the kindest of hearts, and a loyalty that warms my heart. Families do everything together."

At first the Johnsons said they felt pity for the Sherpa people and their living conditions, but by the next day they longed for the riches the Sherpa possessed.

The Sherpa's religion is Buddhism and Heather described their spirituality as "remarkable."

"Through prayer flags, engraved mani stones, prayer wheels, beads, and other relics, they portrayed their beliefs in every step of their lives," she said. "It moved me incredibly. As a Christian I was humbled by their faith and certainly longed for the dedication and commitment towards my faith, that I was so graciously able to witness."

Rand Runco had dreamed of going to Nepal since he was 10 years old. At that time his older brother, age 20, had just returned from the Himalayas and hung pictures all over the walls of his bedroom. From that moment on Rand wanted to experience Nepal first hand.

That dream came true last summer when Runco received an invitation to help chaperon a group of 14 students from the Redmond and Bend school districts who were to make the trip to Nepal.

The group enjoyed a month in the Himalayas, trekking elevations to approximately 19,000 feet.

Runco said it was great for both him and the students to see a different world.

"I've always wanted to live before my time and I had a chance to see people living as they have for thousands of years," he said. "And I had the privilege to see the students experience this, too. Everything there is so opposite to what we're used to. The people there have a totally different view of the world and material items.

"The students saw a culture and religion they hadn't seen before. They got to see very simple, happy, content and humble people with servant's hearts that are just a joy to be around."

Runco was in awe of the majestic countryside he saw.

"It's magic!" he said. "The colors are incredibly vivid, the mountains are higher, the skies are bluer. It's just so unique, both in its landscape and its people. It's just a fascinating place and I feel so blessed to have been able to go there.

"You just can't go without bringing back something you'll carry with you for the rest of your life. I knew immediately I had to go back."

Runco will be going back -- and soon. If there is no threat of political unrest Runco will return to Nepal this month. Eight students from Sisters High School will be joining him the first part of August and they plan to spend 28 days traveling and trekking through Runco's "magical" Nepal.