This is my first attempt at writing a book. I have since my involvement with Surendra, felt a deep need to write his story and the words just seemed to flow, coming right from the heart. I actually thought that something I wrote and which was dear to my heart, would not be considered worthy of being published, but finally plucked up the courage to present the manuscript for review by a successful author / editor.

How happy I felt to receive this feedback:

"I think the manuscript has enormous promise, and it will make it a moving story that will enlighten western audiences about Nepal and the struggles of those struck by misfortune and facing a life of disablement. More importantly, it can inspire them to feel they can overcome their own hardships and make a different in the lives of others by reaching out and caring."

So, updating and preparation for publishing are underway with a renewed enthusiasm.

BACKGROUND:

Since my first visit to Nepal in 1997 on a trekking expedition, I have formed a close relationship with the country and its people. In my many visits since, I have involved myself in various projects to assist young people, schools and families. More recently I have assisted a few young disabled people who in turn are now helping others.

My book tells the true life story of one young man, Surendra Khatri, who became the tragic victim of an internal conflict in his country; a conflict in which he wanted no part. A booby trap bomb took off both his hands and almost took his life.

I became aware of this man's plight in October 2006 when I saw the following article on the internet.

Surendra Khatri, who lost his both hands in a stray bomb explosion left by the Maoists at Babiya Chaur in Myagdi two months ago, appeals for assistance on Thursday. Khatri was forced to return home bare handed after the District Administration Office refused to give him the status of conflict victim.
(Photo: Ghanshyam Khadka )



The story will take you through Surendra's life experiences:

from his humble beginnings as the eldest son of a subsistence farming family in a remote part of Nepal:







Surendra's home in the village of Salyan, Myagdi Region.




his daring break with tradition in having a love (as opposed to arranged) marriage:






Surendra and Alina during their marriage ceremony








Share the drama of his traumatic accident:





The site of the blast - outside the bedroom window.






and his raising of a family:




Get an understanding of his and his wife's determination for him to survive and care for his family:





Surendra's time in hospital





Find out how I became involved in his story and recovery:





At Melbourne Airport on his way home after three months in Australia for medical checks and prosthesis fitting





Appreciate the many challenges he faced and how he overcame seemingly insurmountable obstacles

The only real obstacle is the unthinkable situation of not reaching our target amount. Should that be the case, I will fall back to raising the funds by other means to see this project through.