This unique expedition, called Caudwell Xtreme Everest, aims to understand how the human body works under the grueling condition on Mt. Everest.
"This is a tremendous opportunity not only to see another part of the world, but to be able to contribute science knowledge of high altitude medicine and how to translate these results to critically ill people." remarks Dr. Tom Prater.
Caudwell Xtreme Everest is a research project coordinated by the Centre for Altitude, Space and Extreme (CASE) environment medicine. The team of doctors and scientists are conducting medical testing on more than 70 volunteers during their ascent to base camp, studying the effects of extreme altitude and low oxygen levels on human physiology. The hope is that this research will help doctors treat critically ill adults and children who suffer from diseases associated with low oxygen levels.
A previous expedition took place about two years ago May, 2007. This continued research and data gathered will benefit acute respiratory distress syndrome, altitude sickness, brain dysfunction, congenital heart disease, lung disease, oxygen deficiency and more.
Dr. Tom Prater left Friday, April 24, 2009 to begin the research soon to follow.
Discovery Center of Springfield is offering a variety of programming surrounding Dr. Prater's participation in the expedition.
We hope to be able to stay in touch with Dr. Prater and share his comments and updates on our blog. Discovery Center of Springfield also invites you to an Evening Under the Stars. This special fundraising event will be held Saturday, June 13, 2009. This event will be held at Jude Ranch in Rogersville, Missouri and will include seated dinner, stargazing and Mt. Everest presentation by Dr. Tom Prater. For more information on this event contact Emily Fox at 417-862-9910 Ext. 700.
For more information regarding the Caudwell Xtreme Everest please call Emily Fox, Executive Director, 417-862-9910 Ext. 700 or Charlotte McCoy, Marketing/Special Events Director at 417-862-9910 Ext. 713. To learn more about the expedition, www.xtreme-everest.co.uk.
