Surgery for Children with Disabilities in Nepal

Khum Bahadur Pandey was born with a congenital disorder that makes the knee joint open too widely and bend backwards, rendering him unable to stand on his own. His parents knew early on that he needed medical attention, but they were too poor to afford a doctor so he spent the first 11 years of his life crawling on all fours.  Khum adapted as best he could to his disability, and was able to get around his family’s house, but between the constant teasing from other children and the long distance to school, going to class was an impossible dream.

Fortunately, an HRDC mobile camp came to his village and the doctors were able to offer some hope. A surgery date was set and his family made arrangements to have him transported to the hospital in Banepa. He said that the first day at HRDC will forever remain etched in his memory as the most remarkable day in his life because, after 11 years of intense emotional and physical pain, he finally felt accepted.

It took almost two years (and a lot of practice) but now Khum is not only walking unsupported, he’s walking to school! HRDC helped his family find a school willing to work with him to catch up, and he’s not wasting any time. His teacher says that everyone is impressed with his courage and lively personality, adding that “Khum is one of the most sincere, dedicated and confident students in the class.”

And now, as Khum’s life turns a new leaf, he sees a future– “I want to become a doctor and work at HRDC one day, to serve children with physical disabilities like me.” We certainly hope he does, but in the meantime he gets to enjoy hanging out with his classmates and just taking life one step at a time.

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