09/26/2026
Join us in support of people like David.
Learn more about mission in our latest "Faces of Neuromuscular Rehab" article entitled "David's Story".
Prepared by our very own, Sandra and Sameer.
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When someone faces an unexpected setback, it's often their ability to adapt and keep moving forward that shapes what comes next. David Thagunna's story is a powerful reminder of the difference resilience, community, and determination can make during life's most challenging moments.
David lives in Tansen, Nepal, with his wife and children and works in the laboratory department at United Mission Hospital. Until last year, climbing the hospital's four flights of stairs was simply part of his daily routine. In April 2025, while taking part in a family tradition of picking Kafal berries (Himalayan Bay Berries), David fell from a tree. In an instant, his life changed.
The months that followed his new spinal cord injury brought challenges few others could imagine. David had to adjust to changes in his health and mobility while finding new ways to navigate everyday life. Living in one of Nepal's hilliest regions added another layer of complexity, as did working in a building without elevator access.
In March 2026, Team 27 travelled to Nepal, providing education and training in partnership with UMH’s healthcare teams. When the Team met David, what stood out wasn't the obstacles he faced, but the attitude he brought to them.
David spoke warmly about the support he received from his family, friends, colleagues, church community, and rehabilitation team at UMH. He shared how that support helped him regain confidence, return to work in the hospital's ground-floor laboratory, and continue playing an active role in his community. He was also deeply appreciative of the support provided by NepalAbility, who helped him access rehabilitation treatment, as well as a much a needed wheelchair and catheters thanks to our donors.
David has turned his experience into an opportunity to help others. He makes a point of connecting with newly admitted patients, many who have also experienced a spinal cord injury, offering encouragement and practical advice. He also leads a hospital committee focused on improving wheelchair accessibility, helping create a more inclusive environment for patients, visitors, and staff.
David's story is ultimately one of resilience, not because he faced hardship alone, but because he leaned on the support around him and chose to give back in return. His journey reflects the values at the heart of NepalAbility: Strengthening rehabilitation services in Nepal, and ensuring people living with disabilities have access to the care, equipment, and support they need to find hope and to thrive.
Full article: https://www.nepalability.org/fon---davids-story.html
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Now in its 21st year, NepalAbility’s signature annual fundraiser brings together more than 120 community leaders, healthcare professionals, and supporters for an afternoon of delicious food, live jazz 🎷, a silent auction, and beautiful lake views
🗓 Sunday, October 4, 2026
⏰ 2:00–5:00 PM
📍 Mimico Cruising Club
200 Humber Bay Park Rd W, Etobicoke
🎟 Tickets: $75
Your support helps advance sustainable rehabilitation in Nepal through healthcare teaching, in-person and virtual learning, peer mentorship, exercise-based recovery 💪, essential medical equipment 🩺, and frontline healthcare partnerships.
Tickets are limited, and this event sells out every year!
Scan the QR code, copy and paste the link below, or visit our page, NepalAbility, to get your ticket today:
https://checkout.square.site/merchant/JAYE32GVH8XGS/checkout/2EDBJOAF4HTCRBWPFFBOZDS6
🇳🇵⛵🩺💪🇨🇦
