British Trekker Injured by Yak on Everest Trail, Airlifted for Urgent Care

A harrowing encounter with a yak left British adventurer Emma Keen, 42, severely injured while on a trek to Mount Everest, necessitating an emergency airlift to the hospital for treatment. Keen sustained a deep 3-inch laceration on her leg from the yak’s horn, resulting in significant blood loss and requiring immediate medical attention.

Emma, who is employed as a shop manager, recounted the terrifying moment of the attack: “I suddenly heard the sound of hooves thundering towards me, followed by an intense stabbing pain in my leg.” The force of the yak’s charge propelled her into the air, and upon landing, she found herself face-to-face with the animal as it prepared to charge again. “I screamed, managing to lift my leg and shout, narrowly avoiding a second attack,” she said, report by “The Sun“.

The incident unfolded shortly after Emma’s arrival on the Everest trail. As she was showcasing the yak to her family over FaceTime, the animal charged, leaving her with a gaping wound. The attack was captured on video, showing Emma’s quick reaction to fend off the yak and escape further harm.

Carl Marsh, a fellow trekker and firefighter, rushed to Emma’s aid upon hearing her screams. With his medical training, he was able to assess the severity of her injuries promptly. “I found Emma in agony, the yak’s horn had clearly penetrated her leg, causing a considerable amount of bleeding,” Marsh explained.

Despite the ordeal and the need for 10 stitches to close the wound, Emma’s indomitable spirit saw her continue the remainder of the 130km journey on horseback. The trek, aimed at raising funds for Kidney Wales, was a testament to her resilience and commitment to the cause.

Emma’s experience serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of wildlife encounters, especially in remote and challenging terrains like the Everest trail. Her bravery and the swift action of her companions ensured her survival and allowed her to complete her mission, albeit with an unforeseen and dramatic twist.