PHUKET: Phuket expat Al Alarakhia recently completed a 14 day alpine trek to Everest Base Camp in the Himalayas, but his trip was more challenging than the average climber’s – Al is legally blind.
In 2010 he was diagnosed with the degenerative eye condition retinitis pigmentosa, which means he has only 5 per cent peripheral vision and is unable to drive.
At a group dinner in January, Al met Australian Kevin Mansfield who was organising a trip to Everest with his Unforgettable Adventures company, and Al decided he wanted to join. Two other Phuketians, Kevin’s girlfriend Mayura Namarasa and George Lindsay were also on the trip.
“I like adventure and it gave me a goal to achieve,” Al said.
Being blind meant he was subjected to more challenges than most.
Ismailimail 