David's Story

Prepared by Sameer, OT and Sandra, Health Educator

David with members of Team 27. Clockwise from centre: David, Kayleigh, Mikayla, Carol, Sameer, and Sandra.

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 uses a standing frame during his lunch break in the Physiotherapy Department at United Mission Hospital. Regular supported standing helps people with spinal cord injuries helps maintain bone density, circulation, and lower-body strength.

David at home after receiving a supply of catheters from NepalAbility's Team 27, an important resource supporting his ongoing health and independence.

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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 observes the UMH team support a patient newly admitted with a spinal cord injury.

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 prepares to navigate one of the large ramps at United Mission Hospital in Tansen.

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. 

David with colleagues in the laboratory department at United Mission Hospital, where he returned to work following his spinal cord injury.