Hari Budha Magar has become the world’s first double above-the-knee amputee to summit Everest.
Through his climb, 43-year-old Hari aims to change perceptions on disability and inspire people to climb their own ‘mountains’ no matter the adversity that stands in their way.
Having grown up in the Nepalese mountains before serving 15 years as a Corporal with the Ghurkha Regiment of the British Army, scaling Everest was a boyhood dream for Hari.
Devastatingly an IED in Afghanistan took both his legs in 2010 - an event he thought would shatter his lifelong dream.
Thirteen years later, having overturned a law banning disabled climbers from the mountain, Hari has achieved what many thought impossible, reaching the 8,849 metre peak with the support of a world class team of Nepalese climbers, led by Expedition Leader Krish Thapa (pictured below left with Hari on Everest).
“That was tough. Harder than I could have ever imagined. We just had to carry on and push for the top, no matter how much it hurt or how long it took,” said Hari in a Satellite call to his team.
“If I can climb to the top of the world then anyone, regardless of their disability, can achieve their dream.
“When things got really tough it was the thought of my amazing family and everyone who's helped me get onto the mountain that pushed me to the top. Without the support of so many this expedition simply wouldn't have been possible.”
With half of the team back at Basecamp, and others climbing down from camp two – the climb team will be resting before Hari departs back for the UK later this week.
“My big goals where simply to change perceptions on disability and to inspire other people to climb their own mountains. No matter how big your dreams, no matter how challenging your disability, with the right mindset anything is possible.”
Hari is urging supporters from around the world to dig deep as he raises money for five veteran charities including Team Forces, the Gurkha Welfare Trust, Pilgrim Bandits, Blesma, and On Course Foundation, with the aim of raising over £884,900, the height of Everest plus two zeros.
To support Hari’s Everest appeal, visit https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/harieverestappeal