Community Health Camp in Dhodeni (July 9, 2018)

In 2018, Lhasso Adventure, in association with The Wild Medic Project and the Mother and Child Art Foundation (MCAF), collaborated to conduct a community health camp in one of Nepal’s isolated areas—the initiative aimed to provide both health and education to underserved communities. Lhasso Adventure managed all logistics for the program.

On 10th May 2018, I had the opportunity to lead the Wild Medic Project team through Lhasso Adventure. The group consisted of thirteen dedicated members, including a physician from the United Kingdom, a nurse, and three paramedics from Austria, as well as medical professionals and coordinators from Nepal. The team was as follows:

1. Dr. Sam Johnson – Physician (United Kingdom)

2. Tabitha Broome – Paramedic (Austria)

3. Sharai Broome – Paramedic (Austria)

4. Lily Mickletheait – Paramedic (Austria)

5. Tammy Olssen – Paramedic (Austria)

6. Dr. Sristy Upadhy – Physician (Nepal)

7. Sagar Paudel – Optician (Nepal)

8. Sital Paudel – Assistant (Nepal)

9. Gokul Chyantal – Project Coordinator (Nepal)

10. Narbu Tamang – Project Coordinator (Nepal)

11. Chitra Sunuwar – Project Coordinator (Nepal)

12. Lal Tamang – Chef (Nepal)

13. Tek Bahadur Bhandari – Assistant Chef (Nepal)

The team organized a Free Community Health Camp in Dhodeni, Helambu, where they were warmly welcomed by villagers, school staff, and students. The health camp provided free medical consultations, prescribed medications, eye check-ups, and the distribution of spectacles. Most patients complained of joint pain, eye problems, common colds and fever, gastritis, and body aches.

Though 35 spectacles were available for distribution, the demand exceeded supply due to the high number of patients with eye problems. Many villagers were found to be living with untreated illnesses because of limited awareness and access to healthcare. The team counseled them on the importance of regular medical check-ups. A notable case was that of a young boy with severe vision impairment. The doctors treated him immediately and advised his family to seek further care at a specialized eye hospital in the city.

In addition to the health camp, the team conducted two days of basic first-aid training in the villages of Dhodeni and Virkharka. While language barriers and the presence of very young children limited in-depth instruction, the training successfully covered topics such as hemorrhage control, fractures, burns, and choking. The sessions were interactive and engaging, with active participation from the community. The camp’s success was attributed to the dedication of the participants, effective management, and strong local support. The villagers expressed deep gratitude and hope for similar programs in the future. For me personally, it was a life-changing volunteering experience that broadened my perspective.

Following the health camp, the team enjoyed a three-day hike from Jaharsingpauwa to Namobuddha, passing through Nagarkot and Dhulikhel. The trek was unforgettable, with breathtaking mountain views, diverse vegetation, beautiful landscapes, and warm hospitality from the locals. The traditional houses, decorated walls, and vibrant cultural atmosphere made the journey even more special. This trip remains one of the most memorable experiences of my life.