Tara Budha Ram, a 24-year-old from Naumule Rural Municipality in Dailekh, was living a peaceful life with her husband and small family, working together on their farm. But everything changed when Tara fell from a tree while cutting grass for her goats, sustaining a severe spinal cord injury that left her unable to walk or care for herself. Rushed to Karnali Province Hospital, Tara underwent surgery, but despite the doctors’ efforts, she faced immense challenges in her recovery. Simple daily tasks like sitting, eating, and dressing became impossible without assistance. With their savings drained from medical expenses, Tara’s family had no resources left for further rehabilitation.
Just when hope seemed out of reach, Tara heard about the SH-IS medical charity program from a visiting physiotherapist. Desperate for help, she applied and was accepted into the program. At SH-IS, Tara worked with skilled therapists who guided her through the recovery process. She regained her strength, learning to sit, balance, and use mobility aids. She also learned to perform everyday activities like dressing and feeding herself. After two months of rehabilitation, Tara returned home with a wheelchair, an air mattress, a toilet chair, and home modifications to improve accessibility. More than just physical recovery, Tara regained her dignity and a renewed sense of hope.
“I’m so happy to have my independence back,” Tara said with a smile. “Now, I can do things on my own again, and I’m excited to help my husband with work so we can support our family together.” Tara’s recovery is part of a broader impact at SH-IS, where 49 patients with spinal cord injuries and 136 individuals with disabilities have received therapeutic services, regaining control over their lives and enhancing their functional abilities.