Eyes for Everest has been one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of my life.
I don’t think you can ever quite prepare yourself mentally for what to expect. I mean you expect trekking through Nepal to be tough, but when you’re on your fifth day of hiking up the “Nepalese flats” there comes a point where you start to wonder why you would do this to yourself. But then you come across the most breathtaking views, inaccessible any other way than with your own two feet. Or you meet new and amazing friends who you know will be lifelong, and you get closer to once strangers than friends you’ve known for years. Or you sing and eat with the Sherpas who are always full of energy and love to give. Or maybe it’s when you see the locals who welcome you into their villages, many who have trekked from the next village over, but are ever so thankful for the primary eye care you provide.
Eyes for Everest has achieved so much since its conception. They have brought primary eye care to many who did not have such access previously. It has grown to include the Sherpa guides, local optometrists as well as working towards being run and sustained by local health workers. I’m so thankful I was given the opportunity to volunteer for such a great cause and would highly recommend both Eyes for Everest and the Sherpa guides and porters from K-Tenzing Adventures who made this an unforgettable experience.
P.s make sure you are okay with leeches before going and don’t eat ANY meat on the mountains.
Rose Gu & Rose Huang - NSW Optometrists