Surgery for Children with Disabilities in Nepal

The news of my pregnancy brought immense joy to both my husband and me. My joy turned to despair when I learned that my son, Nilesh, had a clubfoot after his birth.

“Every 3 minutes, a child is born with clubfoot.”

Upon learning about our son's condition, tears flowed endlessly, and we found ourselves questioning why such a fate had befallen us. Hurtful comments suggesting past sins added to our distress, amplifying the already difficult situation.

“The social stigma and blame surrounding disability in children often fall primarily, and unfairly, on mothers.”

Unaware of HRDC’s services, our financial constraints prevented us from seeking private assistance for our child. Fearing societal judgment, we often confined ourselves indoors. Thankfully, a compassionate staff member at the local health facility connected us with an HRDC social mobilizer. Assured that Nilesh would walk and run one day, we discovered hope.

The skilled cast technicians at HRDC utilized serial casting to correct Nilesh's feet, and now he benefits from low-cost club shoes produced in HRDC’s workshop, preventing a recurrence. HRDC’s approach of making the service affordable made this treatment financially feasible for us. We feel blessed to have received HRDC’s competent and compassionate care. Reflecting on our journey, the joy in our hearts is immeasurable as we witness our son attending school alongside his peers. Grateful for the positive impact HRDC has on families like ours in Nepal, we look toward a brighter future.

- Etisha, mother of HRDC patient Nilesh