Beneath Nepal’s skies, vibrant yet bearing witness to countless struggles, a heartfelt story unfolded on April 2. It’s not just a story about facing adversity, but about the courage to persevere and the profound impact of collective compassion.
Shivpujan Kori’s red tuk-tuk carried more than just passengers that day—it carried dreams. Dreams for his 12-year-old daughter, Kiran, who had been battling mobility challenges for years. Determined to find her the care she needed, Shivpujan turned to the helping hands of Tzu Chi volunteers. At Tzu Chi's Lumbini office, warm smiles and encouragement from volunteers awaited him. Together, they journeyed to the Universal College of Medical Sciences and Teaching Hospital (UCMS), where answers awaited.
A Father’s Unyielding Love
Kiran’s story caught the attention of Tzu Chi volunteers during a school visit in 2024. Witnessing her struggle to walk, they visited her home, uncovering a deeper picture of need. With Shivpujan’s only source of income—a tuk-tuk—out of commission, the family faced mounting challenges. Seeing this, the volunteers stepped in to help repair the vehicle and renew Shivpujan ability to support his family.
During the consultation at UCMS, doctors revealed Kiran’s condition was likely congenital and would require surgery in Kathmandu to provide relief. For Shivpujan, the thought of such a challenging path ahead was daunting. Yet, the Tzu Chi team offered reassurance that no matter how difficult the road might be, they would travel it together.
As Kiran underwent examinations, Rekha Pariyar, another story of strength, unfolded nearby. Carrying her infant, Urja, Rekha had arrived seeking answers for recurring tumors and throat pain. Guided by Tzu Chi volunteers, her perseverance stood in stark contrast to the challenges she had faced—limited access to healthcare and scarce resources. Step by step, test by test, Rekha drew closer to clarity, her determination unwavering.
Humanity's Strength Shines Bright
As the day came to a close, Shivpujan’s gratitude spoke louder than words. With hands clasped and eyes full of emotion, he humbly declined the volunteer's offer to cover the transportation costs, expressing thanks to the volunteers who had become a lifeline for his family. In these shared moments, barriers of language, resources, and culture fell away, replaced by a profound sense of connection.
The Tzu Chi team’s efforts proved that compassionate care goes beyond addressing immediate needs. It is about restoring dignity, creating hope, and showing that no challenge is too difficult when people stand together.
In Nepal’s villages, where healthcare remains a far-off reality for many, stories like Kiran’s and Rekha’s remind us of the transformative power of compassion. Together, they inspire us to dream of brighter tomorrows and a world where no one has to face adversity alone.
Written by Ru-Luh Pai
