Our Story
The Story Of Sundar Dhoka
Living in a remote Nepali village, in 1984 Babukaji Adhikari fell from a tree while collecting fodder for his livestock. The accident severely damaged his lower spine, leaving him paralyzed from the waist down.
In life-threatening condition, Babukaji and his 8-month pregnant wife Goma trekked to a mission hospital. There, he received life saving treatment from the doctors and staff.
Due to the stigma of his disability, Babukaji and Goma were ostracized from their community and family. In contrast, they received love and care from the medical staff. Goma was provided with employment at the hospital and cleaned missionary houses to support Babukaji and their newly born son, Bikash.
Babukaji, now wheelchair bound, could no longer traverse the mountainous regions of his homeland. The family eventually traveled to Kathmandu, where they struggled to find jobs and engage needed ongoing medical care in a system that was complex and expensive. All the while, they faced the social isolation, prejudice, and humiliation due to Babukaji’s disabled physical condition.
Babukaji and Goma found that they were not alone in their struggles. They befriended and helped other individuals with disabilities and their families. Goma used her familiarity with hospitals to guide and accompany patients through the healthcare system.
To survive financially the couple made batik garments and frequently hosted meetings for people with disabilities in their rented apartment. From this interdependent community, Babukaji started the Sundar Dhoka congregation.
Inspired by his mother’s and father’s lives, Bikash founded Sundar Dhoka Saathi Sewa (Sundar Dhoka Friendship Service). Since 2008, SDSS has helped thousands of people with disabilities find the care and communities that they need. Although Bikash tragically died after a months long battle with Covid-19, his wife, Bijata, together with Goma, Babukaji, and the SDSS staff carry on his legacy of loving the poor and needy of Nepal.
The Story of Bikash
Inspired by his mother’s and father’s lives, Bikash founded Sundar Dhoka Saathi Sewa (in English: Beautiful Gate Friends Serve).
Since 2008, SDSS has helped thousands of people with disabilities and other medical or social barriers, to find the care and communities that they need. With a focus and responsive compassion for those most in need, SDSS has created numerous initiatives and programs of vital help. “Fullness of Life” – through help for the whole person, is the foundation of the organization from its inception till today.
Although Bikash tragically died after a months long battle with Covid-19, his wife, Bijata, together with Goma, Babukaji, and the SDSS staff carry on his legacy of loving the poor and needy of Nepal.
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