Double amputee Gurkha veteran training for Mount Everest first
A Gurkha veteran who lost both legs in an IED explosion is training to climb Mount Everest next year.
Hari Budha Magar was in the British Army for 15 years before the IED blast in Afghanistan.
Twelve years on, and he is training to climb Mount Everest – when he reaches the summit he will become the first above-the-knee double amputee to climb the Earth's highest mountain above sea level.
"My life changed in a millisecond"
In April 2010, in Afghanistan, the former Gurkha soldier lost both legs during a foot patrol.
"So we were on foot patrol and we were just walking and something went bang. And my life changed in a millisecond," Hari Budha Magar said.
"Life is not about moaning, it's about making a difference. I survived and this is time for me to make a difference."
"Challenge yourself"
The Gurkha veteran told Forces News that "confidence is everything in life. And I think confidence comes from challenge".
"You know, never give up, challenge yourself, enjoy life."
He added: "One step at a time... doing this I can change the perception of lots of people for the good."
Hari Budha Magar hopes to "give hope" to those who may have given up in their lives.
He wants to "show them what is possible, what can be done if we work hard, and we never give up".
"It's hard sometimes, but I think once you believe in yourself inside, pretty much you are solid," the veteran added.
Join Our Newsletter
