Urgent Surgery for Hom Prakash Rai: Support Needed

I’m creating a GoFundMe for my brother, Hom Prakash Rai in Nepal. Hom was and has been my guide for my trips to the Himalayas. We are great friends. I’ve given financial help to Hom over the years, mostly to help his kids for school. Due to work hardship in Nepal, Hom recently made the choice to go to Japan for some work, leaving his wife and kids in Nepal. Hom has now contracted a back injury; it’s a bone issue that could become cancerous if not treated quickly. He has to go home for surgery and extended bed rest. He will not be able to support his family.

My plea: I owe Hom. Not only has he been a great friend, but he was there for me when I needed someone. My first trip to EBC (Everest Base Camp) ended about a mile short of base camp. At Gorakshep, the last village before EBC, I fell very ill due to food poisoning. Hom insisted I helicopter down due to lack of strength for the long multi-day hike down. My second trip, where I was to climb Island Peak, ended with getting COVID. Hom collected all my belongings from Island Peak base camp and a three-day trek to EBC to get my other gear. He then brought it all back to me in Kathmandu. My third trip was a success! I summited Lobuche East and paid for Hom's climbing fees because only Sherpa can guide the climb part. After summiting, I celebrated with bungee jumping. I detached my biceps tendon. Once again, my brother Hom to the rescue. Being that I could not use my right arm and needed to return to the U.S. as fast as possible for surgery, Hom collected and packed my gear and carried it as far as he could into the airport.

Hom has been more than a pal. He’s a true brother. I can’t support him 100% during this hardship for him. But what I can do is hope that many of you can dig just a little. $20 can feed a family of 4 for a day in Nepal.

Please help my friend.