06/08/2026
"My Disability Does Not Define Me" โ Suk Raj Sherpa's Story.
"My name is Suk Raj Sherpa. I am a person with a disability, but I have never believed that my disability defines who I am. Like everyone else, I have dreams, goals, and the ability to contribute to society."
For Suk Raj, the biggest challenge was never his disability it was overcoming his own fear. Standing in front of a crowd made him anxious. He often wondered, "What will people think when they see me?" Those thoughts held him back for many years.
Finding employment was another struggle. Instead of encouraging him, some people told him, "Just stay at home and chant mantras." Those words could have shattered his confidence.
Although he says he has not experienced much discrimination as an adult, he still remembers being called "half man" during his school years. Those words hurt, but he chose not to let them define his future.
"There was a time when I wanted to give up," Suk Raj recalls. "I thought I was useless and had nothing to offer my family, my community, or my country."
But instead of giving in, he asked himself a different question.
"If others with even greater challenges can move forward, why can't I?"
That question changed everything.
Seeing persons with disabilities who had no arms, no legs, or used wheelchairs living with confidence inspired him to believe in himself. He realized that his disability was not his weakness his mindset would determine his future.
His journey took a new direction when he became involved with the Disabled People's Organization of Bhutan (DPOB). Through various trainings and, later, as a Community Outreach Worker, he gained confidence, leadership skills, and a new sense of purpose.
"DPOB didn't just provide training," he says. "They believed in me, encouraged me, and gave me opportunities to grow. Sometimes, I even feel they encouraged me more than my own family. I will always be grateful to DPOB."
Today, Suk Raj proudly serves his community by raising awareness about disability inclusion, supporting other persons with disabilities, and advocating for their rights. He believes one of his greatest achievements is seeing his community become more understanding and accepting of persons with disabilities.
Even though he does not have much financially, he continues to help others by sharing his knowledge, his experiences, and his hope.
His message to other persons with disabilities is simple but powerful:
"Never lose hope. Never give up. Keep trying until you succeed. One day, your hard work will be rewarded."
He also has a message for society:
"Disability is not a punishment or something that only happens to others. It can happen to anyone, at any time. That is why we must build communities, schools, workplaces, and homes that are accessible and inclusive for everyone."
Today, Suk Raj no longer stands in the background, wondering what people think of him.
He stands proudly in front of his community as a leader, an advocate, and living proof that disability does not define a person's potential.
Your membership helps change lives. Join DPOB today".๐
https://membership.dpobhutan.org .
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