Mail by Runner 133: Meet Canice McElroy

Meet Canice McElroy, a soon-to-be doctor preparing for an 11-week medical elective in the Solukhumbu region this April. Canice will divide her time between Khunde Hospital (3,840m) and Phaplu Hospital (2,400m), both established through Sir Edmund Hillary's vision.

"Imagine living in a remote mountain village where the nearest hospital is days away by foot," shares Canice. "For many in Nepal's Everest region, this is reality."

Canice has already raised $900 towards her goal, with funds supporting hospital supplies, medical training, and healthcare outreach projects in the region.

Before beginning her clinical placement, she'll trek to Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes—the highest base camp and freshwater lake system in the world.

Since the 1960s, medical students have volunteered at these hospitals, following the path established by early Himalayan Trust members who helped Sir Ed bring healthcare to the region. Many former students describe their time in Khumbu as career-defining, often maintaining lifelong connections with the communities they served.

Support her fundraising efforts by donating here.

Mā te wā,

The Himalayan Trust team