Harrison and I embarked on this trip to Annapurna Base Camp only focused on the help we could give Eyes4Everest to provide eye care to the people of the Annapurna region. However, what we experienced was a soul warming journey that we will remember for years to come.

We never expected to come across some of the most beautiful scenery I’ve ever seen in my life! Literally hundreds of waterfalls, tumbling from the tops of the magnificent mountains all the way to the rivers and streams that we crossed day after day by suspension bridges. Lush green rain forests that I remember thinking was like a mystical forest in a fairy tale. Fields of beautiful wildflowers in every colour surrounding the track as we approached base camp. And of course there was the mountains! You couldn’t wipe the excited smiles off our face as we spotted our first snow covered mountain out of our hotel window in Ghorepani. After that, the Himalayan snow covered mountain views only became more and more breathtaking especially at Poon Hill and from Base camp.

The people we met on our trip also made the experience an unforgettable one. Our team bonded quickly, and we fast became great friends who talked, laughed, danced, drank endless amounts of tea, played games and most importantly supported each other through any challenges we faced on the trek. The inside jokes and banter were endless. Our Sherpa guides and porters were so amazing - they led us always with an encouraging smile or joke, often singing amongst themselves, sometimes performing what seemed to be superhuman feats to ensure our path was safe. From the games of uno and hangman and soccer to the Nepalese discos they organised for us at night, I can’t describe the kindness and joy that they brought into our days in Annapurna. Lastly the people of Nepal we met along the trek, and especially those we examined, were beautiful and warm people. In every eye examination, we were greeted with a Namaste and a huge smile and sometimes a high five from the kids. To be able to help them, and examine their eyes, was an honour that we’ll never forget.

Shaun and his entire team at Eyes4Everest do a brilliant job at helping and changing the lives of the people of Nepal. We have found our experience life changing, and I personally can’t wait to return in future years to help Eyes4Everest further their work in this region.

Michelle Lamarca - Queensland Optometrist