After practicing law in Miami for more than 30 years and having survived a protracted divorce, I thought it time to finally experience life beyond the office. I decided to go on an adventure rather than take a vacation. One totally off the grid. As far from emails, text alerts and the incessant hysteria of “breaking news” as the Earth would allow.

As a regular watcher of the Discovery Channel, National Geographic and documentaries on mountain climbing like “Meru,” “Everest IMAX,” “Sherpa” and “Beyond the Edge,” for years I had dreamt of releasing my inner explorer to climb mountains. Finally, in 2014, the opportunity came along.

A year earlier, I resolved to reach the foot of mighty Mount Everest, Chomolungma as the Nepalese call her, Goddess Mother of the World. At 5,380 meters, or 17,600 feet, Everest Base Camp is higher than any mountain in the continental United States. It's the starting point for professional climbers who each year attempt the summit.