This Friday evening, the doors of the hall at the Soaltee Crowne Plaza will open to an instrumental concert by Upendra Man Singh. Then, the soothing voice of Deep Shrestha, singing to music played by 1974 AD, will compliment a lavish cocktail dinner. The celebration recognises 27 years of service by the Hospital and Rehabilitation Center for Disabled Children (HRDC).

"The hospital has been committed to provide quality medical service to children, regardless of their financial strength," says Dr Ashok K Banskota, who has been a leading force behind HRDC. "We now want to share our success stories, and hopefully gather some fund for the hospital."

Situated near Banepa, HRDC specialises in children with physical disabilities, the only one of its kind in Nepal. It focuses on reconstructive surgery, rehabilitation of children and their integration into the society. The hospital was established with support from Terre des Hommes and Friends of the Disabled.

For those who can't make it to the hospital, HRDC conducts medical camps every month, reaching out to 40 districts all over the country. The camps screen children and provide hospital referrals with costs covered by sponsoring charities. To date, 42,000 children have benefited from HRDC's efforts.

Paavan Mathema

Let the children walk 2011
A fundraising event in support of HRDC 27 May 2011, 7PM onwards
Hotel Soaltee Crowne Plaza