ENVIRONMENT

Famed Sherpa climber helps Nepal kids reach greater heights

Associated Press
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In this May 9, 2019 photo, Apa Sherpa feeds pigeons in Boudhanath Stupa in Kathmandu, Nepal. Apa Sherpa has stood on top of the world more times than all but one other person. Now he wants to make sure no one feels compelled to follow in his footsteps. (AP Photo/Niranjan Shrestha)

In this May 9, 2019 photo, Apa Sherpa, center, with members of his foundation walk around Boudhanath Stupa in Kathmandu, Nepal. Apa Sherpa has stood on top of the world more times than all but one other person. Now he wants to make sure no one feels compelled to follow in his footsteps. (AP Photo/Niranjan Shrestha)

Apa Sherpa has stood on top of the world more times than almost anyone. Now he wants to make sure no one feels compelled to follow his footsteps.

As a boy growing up in Nepal, Sherpa dreamed of becoming a doctor, but poverty and lack of education steered him to a more dangerous path: Working as a guide on Mount Everest.

Now retired, Sherpa returns every year to the Himalayas to help village schools and show children they have options in life.

"Sherpas take big risks in the mountains to earn a living for their families because they are unable to take up any other jobs," the 59-year-old said. "My main goal is to ensure children in the future don't have to take up climbing like we did."