For many Bhutanese patients, travelling abroad for treatment is an expensive affair. Although the government covers medical expenses for referral cases, it is the rent that adds to the financial burden. To ease this burden, the Bhutan Kidney Foundation inaugurated the “Kidney Patients’ Guest House” in Kolkata yesterday, offering free lodging to patients and their caregivers.
In a few days, Cheki Dorji, a kidney patient and his sister will travel to Kolkata, a journey filled with quiet courage and the hope of a second chance.
For families like theirs, the medical journey doesn’t begin in the hospital, it begins with the confusion and vulnerability of traveling far from home, into an unfamiliar country, language and system.
That’s why the “Kidney Patients’ Guest House” in Kolkata is such a lifeline. The guesthouse building can accommodate around 30 people.
“For middle-income people like us, the house gives us immense happiness. Thanks to the visionary leaders, we are sent for treatment. But finding a house is difficult and paying rent is even more difficult. And I hope this will help people like us.”
Last year alone, the Bhutan Kidney Foundation supported 18 patients by covering their house rent while undergoing treatment abroad.
Pema, a kidney patient said “I am a kidney patient and our government sent me on referral. From airport to the hospital, the liaison officer helps us. In Kolkata, there is a big problem of lodging. The rent is very high. The Bhutan Kidney Foundation’s initiative will benefit us immensely. I am happy that it solves our problem.”
Dhan Maya Gurung, caregiver said “It was very difficult for us in housing when we came for kidney transplant. We stayed in hotel. For one night, we paid 1800 rupees for a night and in a month, we spent 54,000. And we have to stay for six and seven months. So, we were concerned. The Bhutan’s Kidney Foundation’s guest house has helped us immensely and we are very happy. It is well furnished and very clean.”
Tashi Namgay, ED of Bhutan Kidney Foundation said “Kidney-related diseases are on the rise in Bhutan, and many patients are referred to Kolkata for treatment. However, once they arrive, finding a place to stay becomes a major challenge. Even if they do find accommodation, the rent is often very high. Language barriers add to their difficulties. That’s why, in honour of Her Majesty’s birthday, we launched this guest house to provide some comfort and support during such a difficult time.”
The guest house also works in close collaboration with the Royal Bhutan Consulate and the Bhutan Health Liaison Office in Kolkata.
For patients and caregivers like Cheki and his sister, the guest house is more than just a place to stay, it is a place of comfort, dignity, and hope during one of the most difficult times in their lives.
Samten Dolkar
