Synopsis
An Everest summit attempt is a high stakes gamble. Over the years, 160 people have died making the attempt; never to return from one of the harshest environments on earth. 1998 was no exception. Several experienced climbers lost their lives. Climbing Everest couldn't be a more difficult or dangerous human undertaking, for even the strongest, healthiest, and most-experienced mountaineers. Which is why 49 year-old amputee Tom Whittaker's record-breaking 1998 summit of Everest has been called "one of the year's most amazing and inspiring stories." The Tom Whittaker Story is a tale of remarkable resolve, tenacity and courage. Having failed twice before, 49 year-old amputee Tom Whittaker, missing his right foot and kneecap, sets out one more time for the "holy grail" of mountaineering. Award-winning producers Stephen Janson and M. D. Morgan take viewers on a fascinating and illuminating journey with Whittaker from beginning to end. The film features exclusive footage shot throughout Whittaker's incredible and difficult pilgrimage to the highest place on earth. On the mountain, repeated failures and setbacks take their toll on the team. Longstanding friendships are on the verge of breaking apart. Whittaker's body twice betrays him. Finally, with time running out on his climbing permit, in the eleventh hour, Whittaker makes one final push for the summit. The expedition dramatically results in three major records inked in the tally books of Everest, and the human spirit's conquest of an enduring and monumental goal sculpted in ice, snow, and cold gray rock.