Out of Mind: Everest Avalanche and a Barefoot Running Recovery

Joe French was about to climb Everest in 2015 when an earthquake killed nearly 9,000 people. He was haunted by the trauma and turned to his love of the outdoors to find a return to health and peace of mind.

Format: Hardback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 28 September 2023
Publisher: Sandstone Press Ltd

In 2015, Joe French, a climber and documentary maker, embarked on a remarkable journey to climb Mount Everest and document his experience. His dream was about to come true when tragedy struck, and he found himself at the epicenter of an earthquake that claimed the lives of nearly 9,000 people. Just a few years prior, Joe's Sherpa team had tragically lost their lives in an avalanche, and shortly after, his wife, Julie, was diagnosed with cancer. The weight of these traumatic experiences took a toll on Joe's mental well-being, leading to post-traumatic stress disorder. Seeking solace, Joe turned to his love for the outdoors. He embarked on barefoot runs through the enchanting forests and glens surrounding his Scottish home, discovering a profound healing power in nature. Through his outdoor adventures, Joe found a renewed sense of purpose and a path to recovery. He reconnected with the earth, embraced the elements, and allowed the tranquility of the natural world to soothe his troubled mind. The healing effects of his outdoor experiences were profound, and Joe's journey became a testament to the power of nature in aiding mental health. He continued to climb and explore, using his adventures as a means to raise awareness about mental health issues and inspire others to seek solace in the outdoors. Joe's story is a powerful reminder that even in the face of adversity, the natural world can offer us hope, healing, and a path to a brighter future.

Weight: 376g
Dimension: 161 x 243 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781914518324