- K
Dawa Sherpa, 32, died May 14th after guiding two successful ascents of Makalu, the world's 5th highest mountain. Dawa and I became good friends over the course of many treks and climbs I organized in the Khumbu. Personal favorites for me were a trek with friends to Everest Base Camp and Kalapatar, over the Cho La to Gokyo and Gokyo Ri, and over the Renja La to Thame before returning via Namche Bazar and Lukla. I (Peter) first got to know Dawa on a quick trek (for me) with his brothers Lakpa and Phurba from Giri to Everest Base Camp to rebuild my muscles after a hip replacement in 2004.
Dawa was always helpful, kind hearted, and caring -- a tribute from everyone who knew him. He never seemed to stop smiling and, although quiet, many trekkers bonded with Dawa during treks across passes, and on climbs through the magnificent Himalayas.
Dawa worked as a climbing Sherpa in the fall and spring. Although he was afraid of climbing after the 2014 Everest avalanche killed a friend climbing right above him, he kept guiding because it is the best paying job available to many Sherpas. To support his family, Dawa basically gave his life for his two clients, both of whom summited and are safe.
Dawa left his wife Dawa Yangzom Sherpa, his daugher Phura Yangzi, almost 6, and son Pemba Tashi, just 1. Dawa was tremendously proud of his family, and the sole bread winner. They need our help now creating a nest egg to pay for necessities like food, lodging and clothing. As in the past, Peter will pay the tuition for his kids to attend school in Kathmandu.
His wife is devastated, his daughter in disbelief, and their extended family worried about their future. Immediate financial support can reduce their stress.
Like most Sherpas, Dawa Yangzom Sherpa does not have a bank account, and Go Fund Me does not operate in Nepal. We have therefore set up a separate bank account in Peter's name, and will send contributions to her via Western Union, which is the quickest, most reliable way to send money to Nepal. Dave and I hope you will help our friend's family.
Dawa was always helpful, kind hearted, and caring -- a tribute from everyone who knew him. He never seemed to stop smiling and, although quiet, many trekkers bonded with Dawa during treks across passes, and on climbs through the magnificent Himalayas.
Dawa worked as a climbing Sherpa in the fall and spring. Although he was afraid of climbing after the 2014 Everest avalanche killed a friend climbing right above him, he kept guiding because it is the best paying job available to many Sherpas. To support his family, Dawa basically gave his life for his two clients, both of whom summited and are safe.
Dawa left his wife Dawa Yangzom Sherpa, his daugher Phura Yangzi, almost 6, and son Pemba Tashi, just 1. Dawa was tremendously proud of his family, and the sole bread winner. They need our help now creating a nest egg to pay for necessities like food, lodging and clothing. As in the past, Peter will pay the tuition for his kids to attend school in Kathmandu.
His wife is devastated, his daughter in disbelief, and their extended family worried about their future. Immediate financial support can reduce their stress.
Like most Sherpas, Dawa Yangzom Sherpa does not have a bank account, and Go Fund Me does not operate in Nepal. We have therefore set up a separate bank account in Peter's name, and will send contributions to her via Western Union, which is the quickest, most reliable way to send money to Nepal. Dave and I hope you will help our friend's family.
