A British army veteran who lost both his legs while serving in Afghanistan has become the first double above-knee amputee to conquer Mount Everest.
The Gurkha veteran arrived at Everest in Nepal on April 17, marking exactly 13 years since the life-altering incident that resulted in the loss of his legs. Following an 18-day wait for the weather to clear, he began the challenging journey that led him to the 8,849 meter summit on May 19.
He affectionately refers to them as his “spider legs” and ensured their warmth by installing heating socks.
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.
Magar, who is also the first double above-knee amputee to scale Nepal’s Mera Peak and Chulu Far East, was among those who campaigned to overturn the country’s ban on disabled individuals climbing Everest in 2018.
The collective efforts of the climbers and disability organizations successfully led to the ban being lifted, opening doors for more amputees to pursue their dreams of climbing the mountain. Throughout his challenging ascent, thoughts of his family and supporters provided Magar with the strength and motivation to complete the perilous…
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