Kathmandu: Hari Budha Magar creates history as he successfully conquers Everest. At around 3pm on May 19th, Hari stood victorious atop the world’s tallest mountain as the first ever double above-knee amputee to scale Mt Everest.
Thirteen years after losing his legs in Afghanistan, Hari has proved disability is no barrier to reaching the 8,849 metre peak.
Hari’s climb was made possible by a world class team of Nepalese climbers, led by Expedition Leader Krish Thapa . At the top, Hari shouted “We did it!”, a reference to, and in recognition of, the team effort that enabled this success.
Over a satellite phone call, made possible by NSSLGlobal to his team off the mountain, he added; “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. If I can climb to the top of the world then anyone, regardless of their disability, can achieve their dream. No matter how big your dreams, no matter how challenging your disability, with the right mindset anything is possible.
“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.”
Hari is now safely down at basecamp and 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://crowdfunder.co.uk/p/harieverestappeal
To make this climb happen, Hari has been supported by over 30 organisations including Team Forces / Team Army, Barratt Developments,brandingscience, Ottobock UK, Therabody and the Oriental Club, plus over 600 individuals. Support for which he is immensely grateful and without which the attempt would not have happened.
Thank you everyone for believing in Hari, you have all been a part of creating history.
PICTURES FROM THE EVEREST SUMMIT COMING 21st MAY. Image used is from Mera Peak summit.