"He’s climbing Mt Everest. We’re doing a triathlon. And it’s all for this one special Hospital helping Nepal’s poorest and most vulnerable people."

- - - - -

Please watch our VIDEO in the 'gallery' section below or by copying this link into your web browser in a new tab - 

http://youtu.be/EZr1LVokU4M

- - - - -

Ever since arriving here in Nepal, there's been one very special place that has continued to blow us away time and time again... The Green Pastures Leprosy and Rehabilitation Hospital.

People living with leprosy or disability in Nepal are often so marginalised and stigmatised that they have no one to care for them and no ability to pay for their treatment. As a result their physical and mental condition can deteriorate rapidly, even costing them their life. Other times, families and patients run into immense debt as they are forced to pay fees at the government hospitals.

Put simply, because Green Pastures patients cannot afford to pay for their own treatment, without external funding the hospital cannot afford to keep providing its vital services.

We're tired of seeing this amazing hospital struggling for funding and resources. It's time to change that.

Why a triathlon? Why now?

Two months ago Matt met Vishu Sijali, a local Nepali mountaineer and adventurer. Vishu shared with Matt his vision to climb Mt Everest and to 'give back' to an organisation that was truly helping poor Nepalis. Climbing Everest brings with it great attention and opportunity, and after Matt took Vishu to see the work of Green Pastures Hospital, Vishu decided to use his Everest expedition to bring attention to the plight of Nepalis living with leprosy and disability.

Inspired by Vishu's example, a team of us who work for the International Nepal Fellowship (who set Green Pastures up in 1957) are running the 'Himalayan Rush Triathlon' in solidarity with Vishu's efforts, and to raise funds and awareness for the Hospital ourselves.

This won't be easy. Matt is running the 'full triathalon' (1.7 km swim, 40 km ride and 10 km) and Brittany the 'half'. But because it's in Nepal, you guessed it... hills, and lots of them. This is no ordinary triathlon but a real test of endurance. It will be the toughest triathlon we've ever completed (OK... the only triathlon we've ever completed)!

We'd love you to support the work of this incredible hospital that is truly giving care to Nepalis who would otherwise have no options.

Thank you so so much for always standing by us and encouraging us.

Matt and Britt

P.S. To give you an idea of the incredible difference your support can make:

• $16 can provide… A leprosy self-care kit - For training for a person affected by leprosy to learn how to care for themselves.

• $119 can provide… Two weeks of physio and occupational therapy - Restoring confidence and mobility for a Nepali patient.

• $239 can provide… One month’s specialist care in Green Pastures Hospital - A trained nurse to provide daily medicines, treat wounds and carry out tests.

• $341 can provide… A wheelchair for a person with a disability - Who would otherwise be unable to afford one, so that they can return home and regain mobility.

- - - - - 

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity. So it’s the most efficient way to donate – saving time and cutting costs for the charity.