Bhadra Bahadur’s family struggles with treatment costs for 12-year-old Roshika

KATHMANDU: In the serene village of Sunsari Ramdhuni-7, Bhadrey Danda resides the family of Bhadra Bahadur Bhujel, comprising seven members, including the 71-year-old patriarch, Singh Bahadur Bhujel.

Among them are his three daughters and one son, the youngest being a mere four years old.

Despite facing the absence of basic necessities many families like Bhadra Bahadur’s endure.

Originally from Jhapa, they lacked their own piece of land.

Now, they inhabit a small hut made of bamboo and mud in a remote corner. Sharada Bhujel, Bhadra Bahadur’s wife, shared their struggle of residing on a relative’s land for the past 40 years. “We don’t even have our own land. We live at the mercy of our relatives. If they ask us to leave, we’ll have to,” she lamented.

Their hut is nestled close to the jungle, posing constant threats from wild elephants. Bhadra Bahadur expressed concern over the lack of organized shelter and water scarcity. “We lack proper shelter and even water. Living near the jungle is risky, especially with the threat of elephants,” he said.

Despite these challenges, the family manages to find joy amidst the hardship.

Recently, Bhadra Bahadur fell ill, and Sharada sought help from a cooperative community hospital, where they incurred expenses of around 30-35 thousand rupees.

Bhadra Bahadur attributed his illness partly to financial stress, exacerbated by his inability to work due to poor health.

He also recounted the ordeal his 12-year-old daughter, Roshika, faced due to mumps.

Unable to afford treatment, they resorted to purchasing adhesive tapes multiple times from medical shops, albeit with little relief.

“We couldn’t afford to go to a private hospital. We relied on the community hospital. But without adequate funds, we couldn’t ensure proper treatment,” he shared.

They shared that Roshika’s gallstone problem has recently worsened, causing discomfort in her throat and abdomen.

Due to their family’s weak financial condition, they have struggled to afford proper treatment and adequate nutrition, leaving Roshika’s care compromised.

They appeal to the community for financial support, earnestly seeking assistance for their daughter’s well-being.

Victim’s family

Singh Bahadur Bhujel, 71 years – father-in-law

Bhadra Bahadur Bhujel, 39 years – husband

Sharda Bhujel, 29 years – wife

Roshni Bhujel, 14 years – daughter

Roshika Bhujel, 12 years – daughter

Roshna Bhujel, 6 years – daughter

Rojan Bhujel, 4 years – son

Victim’s contact number: 9819023551