Gerard McDonnell Fund

"Gerard McDonnell had a big heart. His compassion and strength of character was apparent in everything he did.

On August 1, 2008, Gerard summited K2 and made mountaineering history as the first Irish person to stand on the summit. The next morning, he risked his life to rescue three climbers stranded above 8000 meters. Upon descent, Gerard and the men he saved were lost in an avalanche. Those who knew Gerard understand he could never walk away from anyone who needed help.

To honor his spirit, The Gerard McDonnell Memorial Fund was established to assist the children of those Pakistani and Nepalese climbers who also lost their lives on K2 in 2008: Jehan Baig, Karim Meherban, Jumik Bhote and Pasang Bhote.

The Fund will sponsor these children throughout their childhood years, helping with their education and medical care. The Mountain Fund staff is 100% volunteer, and there are no deductions for overhead. Your donation goes directly to the children.

Your contribution is a fitting tribute to Gerard’s spirit. The fund makes it possible for him to continue helping others. For all of us, it is a meaningful way to honor his courage and compassion."

http://www.mountainfund.org/projects/active-projects/education/gerard-mcdonnell-memorial-fund