Fortunately, a group of fellow hikers was nearby, ready to come to her aid.
By the time I sat up, my foot was pointing the wrong way.
I knew right away I had broken my leg, she recalls.
I tried to get up with my hiking pole and it collapsed on me.
Bannister was able to call out for help, and a passerby quickly contacted emergency services.
However, they were informed that the rescue team wouldnt arrive for another five hours.
It wasnt very encouraging, Bannister said.
They volunteered to carry her on a three-hour journey down to the base of the hiking trail.
I knew I was capable of carrying her down, said May.
Meanwhile, an occupational therapist guided her through breathing exercises to help keep her calm.
At one point, May struggled to keep going as blisters from his boots began to take their toll.
In a generous gesture, another passerby offered him their shoes to help him continue.
Despite the groups challenges, they forged new friendships along the way.
If I didnt focus on my pain, I didnt scream quite as loudly, Bannister recalls.
I think we were all just giving each other psychological support.
The thoughtful group even stayed with Bannister at the hospital until her son arrived.
I thought these people were behaving like angels coming from the sky, Bannister said.
I was just thankful that these guys were willing to do this.
She had to undergo surgery, and is now recovering in a wheelchair.
That totally outweighed the broken leg, she said.
Everest
71-Year-Old Hiker Breaks Into Song Upon Completing Grueling 2,653-Mile Trail
