Supporting Kiran’s Path to Healing and Independence

In the rural heartland of Kapilavastu, Nepal, 14-year-old Kiran Kori’s smile belies the daily challenges she faces. Unlike her classmates at Shree Mahendra Basic School, Kiran cannot walk with ease. Her journey, marked by resilience and the unwavering support of her family and community, is a testament to the power of compassion and perseverance.

*Kiran Kori (right) is accompanied by her family and volunteers during a home visit that revealed her mobility challenges. | Photo: Lam Kai Goh (吳南凱)*

Discovering the Need

Kiran’s story came to light when her school requested assistance for uniforms and school supplies. During a home visit on September 9, 2024, volunteers discovered that Kiran’s difficulties went far beyond material needs. Kiran had fallen from a swing when she was two years old, leaving her with a severe leg injury. Her father, Shivpujan Kori, tried to seek treatment in India, but the estimated cost of 150,000 rupees (approx. 1,700 USD) was far beyond the family’s means.

As Kiran grew, her legs could not support her weight, causing her spine and left leg to deform further. She could not walk long distances or carry her schoolbag, relying on her siblings to accompany her to school. Wanting to help, volunteers arranged for a medical examination at Kapilvastu District Hospital on September 17, 2024.

Navigating Barriers to Care

Doctors recommended that Kiran seek specialized treatment at the Hospital & Rehabilitation Centre for Disabled Children (HRDC) in Banepa, near Kathmandu. To ease the family’s burden, nurse Bitisha Bhandari explained the medical process and suggested purchasing health insurance. Meanwhile, volunteers helped repair Shivpujan’s tuk-tuk, his only source of income, which had been damaged in an accident. After five weeks of repairs, Shivpujan was able to resume work, earning enough to support his family.

Over the next six months, Kiran underwent regular checkups, including a visit to Universal College of Medical Sciences and Teaching Hospital (UCMS) to monitor her condition. Each step was accompanied by volunteers, ensuring Kiran and her father never felt alone.

**LEFT***: To boost Kiran’s confidence before surgery, Ai Ping Teoh (張愛彬, center) presents her with a red envelope of blessings and wisdom, a symbol of hope and encouragement. | Photo: Ai Ping Teoh* **RIGHT***: Nurse Bitisha Bhandari (right) explains the medical process and insurance options to Kiran (left) and her father Shivpujan Kori. | Photo: Xu Xue-You (徐雪友)*

A Community’s Commitment

In April 2025, as Nepal celebrated the New Year, Kiran and her parents embarked on a 12-hour bus journey to Banepa. There, Dr. Nirdesh Shakya welcomed them, arranged for Kiran’s admission, and coordinated her care. On April 16, orthopedic doctors administered injections to strengthen her legs, with surgery scheduled for later in the year.

Despite her physical pain and the daunting prospect of surgery, Kiran remained determined. She promised volunteers she would study English diligently so she could communicate with them in the future. By July, however, her condition had worsened—her back was now visibly curved, and walking had become even more difficult.

**LEFT***: Kiran Kori (second left) starts ninth grade at a new school, promising Ai Ping Teoh (right) to improve her English.* **RIGHT***: By July, Kiran’s condition had worsened, making walking even more difficult. | Photos: Ai Ping Teoh*

Facing Surgery with Courage

On July 18, volunteers accompanied Kiran to Kathmandu for pre-surgery blood tests. To encourage her, they presented her with a red envelope of blessings and wisdom—a tradition started by Dharma Master Cheng Yen in 1990, symbolizing the transmission of “blessings” and “wisdom.” This gesture, along with the constant presence of volunteers, gave Kiran the courage to face her operation.

On the day of her first surgery, Kiran was accompanied by Maniron, who held her hand as she entered the hospital. The operation was a success, and doctors recommended two more surgeries to help her walk normally. Kiran’s wounds healed well, and she is now preparing for her second surgery in early September.

**LEFT***: Shivpujan Kori (front) is grateful for the support that enabled him to repair his tuk-tuk and continue providing for his family.* **CENTER***: Dr. Nirdesh Shakya (left) welcomes Kiran (center) and her parents to HRDC after their long journey.* **RIGHT***: Maniron (left) supports Kiran (right) as she prepares for surgery at HRDC. | Photo: Ma Jian-Zhi (left); Dr. Nirdesh Shakya (center); Ai Ping Teoh (right)*

A Future Filled with Hope

Kiran’s journey has been long and painful, but she has faced every challenge with remarkable bravery. Despite the pain and the temptation to use a wheelchair, she insists on walking, determined to reclaim her independence. As Ai Ping Teoh, a volunteer from Singapore, shared, “We have accompanied Kiran through every step, hoping only for her successful surgeries and a healthy future.”

Kiran’s story is a powerful reminder of the difference that compassion, encouragement, and community support can make in the life of a child facing adversity. With continued care and determination, Kiran is walking toward a brighter tomorrow.