A 15-year-old with Down syndrome is said to be the first American with the chromosomal disorder to make it to the base camp of the world’s tallest mountain.

For 10 days, Eli Reimer trekked rugged terrain in below-freezing temperatures to make it to the base of Mt. Everest. Traveling along with his father, Justin, and six others, the Oregon teen ultimately reached an elevation of 17,000 feet.

Reimer was the first of his group to reach base camp, making history with his physical feat.

“I hope that this encourages people to get the concept that we’re all created uniquely and even though my son is disabled, he’s still a gift to those around him,” Justin Reimer told TODAY. “I think for Eli, it was just another fun day on the trail.”

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