Niraj is an 8-year-old boy whose foot was severely burned as an infant by an open fire in his family home. He has now found his smile again after an INF Nepal health camp is his home district of Rolpa led to treatment at Green Pastures Hospital.

Aged just six months, his mother’s brief absence on one winter night led to a life-altering incident. The family, living in a rural area with limited access to advanced medical care, faced a frightening challenge.

The child’s burnt leg not only made it difficult for Niraj to walk but also posed significant social barriers. The physical impairment made him hide his leg and avoid communication with others. His peers often ignored him, intensifying his isolation and diminishing his self-esteem.

Niraj is one of 15,000 who have been helped by the Community Medical Outreach project, a three-year project which reached a total of 16 districts across western Nepal.

A disability screening camp in Rolpa referred Niraj for treatment at Green Pastures, including orthopaedic surgery. His treatment was funded entirely by INF, which also covered food and accommodation costs for the family, alleviating financial burdens and enabling them to focus on the child’s recovery.

Nirja’s father Nar spoke of his gratitude for the transformation he has witnessed in his young son’s life: “Before surgery, he used to hide his leg and wouldn’t communicate with people. Children of his age used to ignore and run away from him. But the situation has changed now. He plays and communicates with children of his age and goes to school together.

“In rural places like ours, people die of simple diseases. The service of INF reached this rural place, and we got new life through its free service. I wish INF can progress and always stay blessed. I am grateful to the INF team as saving life is a great deal.”