The Bhutan Kidney Foundation relocated its shelter near the Gelephu Central Regional Referral Hospital to accommodate more patients and keep them close to the hospital. The move was made in celebration of its 12th foundation day. The Bhutan Kidney Foundation is a Civil Society Organisation with Her Majesty The Gyaltsuen as its Royal Patron.
The Bhutan Kidney Foundation’s new patient shelter is just a 10-minute walk from the Gelephu hospital and offers facilities such as a washing machine, Wi-Fi, and television. The previous shelter was located in the heart of Gelephu town.
“When I came here from Monggar, I had no place to eat and sleep. For months I had to stay in private houses. The kidney in-charge brother got me in touch with the Bhutan Kidney Foundation and I was given a room, ration, and bedding,” said Taraman Gurung, a patient.
“When I see my friends, I feel sad given the condition I am in. But I cannot stay sad, this might lead to other diseases. So, I try to lead a normal life. We are happy that kidney foundation gave us a house and other facilities,” said Rinchen Norbu, another patient.
While speaking with the patients, the Bhutan Kidney Foundation’s executive director assured them that kidney patients need not worry about transplant costs if they can find a donor.
Tashi Namgay, the executive director said “if a donor is found, when kidney patients go for transplant, the government pays for the entire medical expenses. You do not have to pay anything. Some think they have to bear expenses while going for treatment. That is not true. Four people need to go, and return airfare expenses for three people are borne by the government. Only the witness expenses have to be borne by yourselves.”
The new shelter can accommodate 13 people, whereas the old one could only house eight.
The shelter is allocated to patients who face financial difficulties and those coming from other districts who do not have relatives in Gelephu.
Currently, 68 kidney patients undergoing dialysis at the Gelephu Central Regional Referral Hospital are waiting for compassionate donors to come forward so they can undergo a kidney transplant.
Karma Wangdi, Gelephu
Edited by Sherub Dorji
