See ability, not disability, says Kinnaur’s Everest conqueror

Chhonzin Angmo spoke in an exhausted voice from New Delhi, her words carrying the weight of an extraordinary achievement. She had just fulfilled the biggest dream of her life. For many, it was hard to believe that Angmo, who hails from a small village in Kinnaur district, had become the first visually impaired woman to conquer Mount Everest.

“It’s a life-changing experience for me. I now hope the feat will inspire society to see ability beyond disability,” Angmo told The Tribune, her voice filled with quiet triumph.

Back from Nepal and recovering from the gruelling historic expedition, Angmo focused less on her personal struggles and reflected more on how her achievement might shift society’s perception of differently-abled individuals. “I climbed Mount Everest on behalf of the differently-abled community and I am incredibly proud to have proven that we can achieve what others can. I hope this feat changes how society views and treats people with disabilities,” she said.

“Too often, the assumption is that differently-abled persons can’t accomplish much. People should focus on their abilities, not limitations. With the right support, they can pursue and fulfil their dreams.”

Angmo expressed deep gratitude to her employer, Union Bank of India, New Delhi, for their encouragement and financial support. “Scaling Mount Everest was my lifelong dream. I knocked on many doors to seek help but found none until the bank believed in me. Their trust made this possible and I can’t thank them enough,” she said.

Talking about her climb to the top of the world’s highest peak, Angmo said the mental challenge outweighed the physical one. “The physical toll was brutal, almost torturous. But mentally, it was even harder. Despite everything, I kept going, praying and reminding myself not to quit,” she said. When she finally reached the summit, she collapsed, exhausted, but overjoyed in equal measure. “My team kept telling me to get up for a photograph. I simply didn’t have any strength left in me, but deep down I was extremely happy and satisfied,” she recalled.

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