Bel Bahadur Gurung had only just begun his married life with his beloved wife, Maita, when tragedy struck. Just fifteen days after their wedding, while cutting grass for cattle on a steep hillside, Bel slipped and fell. The accident left him with a severe spinal injury, and at just 24 years of age, he lost the use of his lower body.
His family rushed to help him, but they could not afford the hospital treatment he needed. Instead, he was taken to a small local medical facility that did not have the equipment or resources to treat his serious injuries.
For Maita, the situation was heartbreaking. The young husband she had married, once strong and hardworking, was suddenly unable to walk or care for himself. Some villagers, and even her mother-in-law, doubted whether she would remain with a husband who was now disabled. But Maita’s love never wavered. With courage and selfless devotion, she chose to stay by Bel’s side, caring for him faithfully through every difficulty.
The years that followed were challenging. Bel, who had once worked tirelessly to support his family, became dependent on others for many of his daily needs. Yet, even in the midst of hardship, a new sense of hope emerged.
An instructor named Robert encouraged Bel and Maita to join Nepal Leprosy Trust’s Lalitpur Technical School. There, they spent two years learning leather craftsmanship. They approached their training with determination and enthusiasm, hopeful that they could build a new future together.
After completing their training, however, finding work in Kathmandu proved difficult, and financial struggles continued. Despite these challenges, Bel and Maita refused to give up. They continued to trust in God’s provision and plan for their lives.
In time, Ms. Eileen Lodge, the founder of Nepal Leprosy Trust, offered them employment in NLT’s leather workshop. This opportunity gave Bel not only a livelihood, but also a renewed sense of purpose and dignity.
Today, Bel continues to work at NLT Leather Works alongside his devoted wife, Maita. For 36 years, he has faithfully served with gratitude, determination and resilience.
Bel and Maita’s journey is more than a story of overcoming adversity. It is a testimony to the power of steadfast love, the dignity of meaningful work, and the strength that comes from faith and perseverance. Through the years, they have shown that even when life takes an unexpected and difficult turn, hope can be found and a new life can be built together.