For disabled people in Nepal today, rejection and exclusion can be an everyday reality.

They live with discrimination, lack of opportunity and are often viewed as being cursed.

This results in drastically reduced prospects, including poorer health outcomes and higher rates of poverty – inequalities which are growing even deeper due to the coronavirus pandemic.

INF Nepal’s Shining Hospital in Surkhet offers a unique rehabilitation service in mid-west Nepal for people suffering from spinal cord injuries, leprosy, strokes and cerebral palsy.

As well as improving their physical condition, the hospital offers counselling and prepares patients for a fulfilled life back at home.

Dal (pictured, second left) was treated at Shining Hospital after being confined to his bed for three years by a spinal injury.

He was hit by a falling log while working in the forest, but he could only afford to stay in a Kathmandu hospital for a week after surgery. Back home in Jajarkot, he was totally dependant on others until he heard about INF.

At Shining Hospital, Dal received daily rehabilitation therapy and counselling sessions which contributed to his gradual recovery. He was also provided with an assistive device to help move around which doubles up as a toilet chair.

Now he can walk with crutches, as well as feed, clothe and wash himself – and even look after his child.

“The mental pain of being disabled and severe dependence was killing me inside more than my physical condition,” said Dal.

“Each hour and each day is better than the last, and I am very thankful for INF,” adding that the care he’s received has been “like a mother to her child”.