ROYAL DORNOCH FLAG UNFURLED HIGH ABOVE BASE CAMP 

CPR campaigner David Sullivan has been flying the flag for Royal Dornoch high above Everest Base Camp. 

Surrey based David also seized the opportunity to highlight the importance of resuscitation techniques to Sherpa guides and villagers. 

An insulated, battery operated Code Blue defibrillator – similar to the one fitted to the exterior of the Halfway House on the Championship Course – has been donated to villagers on the popular trekking route. 

“It was hairy at times but the most amazing experience,” said 62-year-old David, who has shared a video clip and photographs from his adventure. 

“The people of Nepal are the most kind and welcoming, and they were so receptive to my CPR classes. 

“I was looked after every step of the way by my Sherpa. Passan is one of the very best. 

“I was humbled to have the helicopter flight up to more than 5000 metres laid on by contacts at Medecins sans Frontieres and the Base Camp hospital. 

“Given that I have lost friends to heart attacks it was an emotional experience putting the defib in a box at 19,800 feet and getting out the Royal Dornoch pin flag. 

“The defib – and the mannequin which posed some problems at airports en route! – has been left with a nurse in the village of Lobouche, where I had shown basic lifesaving skills to more than 200 locals.  

“It can be used in an emergency situation over the next five years and more. 

“I met quite a few Americans on my 14-day trek and my Royal Dornoch hat attracted attention. They were inviting me to play their courses back in the States!  

“I have arranged to join a group when they visit Royal Dornoch next year.” 

The Everest challenge followed hard on the heels of a visit to Dornoch, where David led community heart start classes and briefed our greenkeepers on potential lifesaving skills. 

David is raising funds to support communities in emergencies. You can contribute at justgiving.com/crowdfunding/lifesaving-defibrillator

Watch a short 90 second clip of David performing CPR training high above Everest Base Camp.