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Health

British Army veteran Hari Budha Magar makes history as first double above-knee amputee to climb Mount Everest

Hari Budha Magar said climbing Mount Everest was harder than he could have ever imagined.  (conqueringdreams.org, File)

A British army veteran who lost his legs while serving in Afghanistan has become the first double above-knee amputee to conquer Mount Everest. 

Hari Budha Magar reached the 8,849 metre peak on Friday, 13 years after losing his legs following an IED explosion. 

Speaking via satellite phone he said it was harder than he 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," he said. 

"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."

He is no stranger to making history, having been the first double above-knee amputee to climb several mountains including Mera Peak and Chulu Far East. 

He joined forces with other climbers and disability organisations in 2018 to overturn a ban on disabled people climbing Everest at Nepal's Supreme Court.

He said thinking of his family and supporters helped spur him on. 

"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," he said. 

"Without the support of so many this expedition simply wouldn't have been possible."

Mr Magar is fundraising for five charities with the aim to raise 884,900 pounds ($1.65 million), as a nod to the height of Everest. 

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