An American climber, Alexander Pancoe, tragically passed away on Mount Makalu in Nepal during a climb to raise money for a children's cancer program.
According to Reuters and the company that organized the expedition, Madison Mountaineering, Pancoe, 39, died while settling into his sleeping bag at the mountain's second high camp after returning from an acclimatization trip at the higher camp three.
Madison Mountaineering shared on social media a tribute from Pancoe's wife, Nina Laski Pancoe, expressing their heartbreak over the sudden loss of Alex. They described the events leading to his passing and mentioned his positive spirit earlier that day.
Nina Pancoe also mentioned her husband's past health struggles and his determination to live life to the fullest despite facing challenges.
Pancoe was climbing Makalu to raise funds for a pediatric blood cancer program at Lurie Children's Hospital in Chicago. He had already raised $1 million for the cause.
Mount Makalu is the world's fifth-highest mountain, peaking at 28,000 feet. The expedition leader, Garrett Madison, confirmed Pancoe's passing and highlighted his impact on fundraising efforts for the hospital.
Gabe Hauari is a national trending news reporter at USA TODAY. You can follow him on X @GabeHauari or email him at Gdhauari@gannett.com.