A tuberculosis patient who had been languishing under a tree shed for the past two weeks has been rescued after a news report on his condition was published in the Post.

Several people came to the aid of Shibu Giri, 36, of Shankharpokhari-4 in Parbat, admitting him to Western Regional Hospital in Pokhara on Thursday. Meanwhile, the hospital has decided to bear all the expenses for his treatment including food and accommodation.

“We have taken the responsibility for his treatment,” claimed medical superintendent of the hospital, Dr Buddhi Bahadur Thapa. Thapa said that they had taken the decision unanimously after reading about his dire circumstances, adding that it would be great if someone came forward to sit beside him.

Diagnosed with the disease two years ago, Giri had renounced his six-month medication after the first three months and resumed his work in the fields. However, the disease surfaced again and despite the doctor’s advice to take a total of 60 injections, he had once again discontinued them after 40 as the nearest health post was located an hour away, which according to him was time consuming as he had to work in the fields to earn a living.

Giri then went to Pokhara in search of treatment after being a subject of ‘hatred and disgust’ among his relatives and fellow villagers. But Giri had been forced to take shelter under a tree at Baidam in Pokhara after being unable to manage funds for his treatment.

Shreekrishna Adhikari, a local who had been helping Giri, expressed hope of his well being. “I am overwhelmed by the support of people,” said Giri, extending his gratitude towards all who helped in his rescue. After being admitted to hospital, he promised to take the full course of his medication.

TB Inspector Basanta Nath Bhattrai of the District Public Health Office informed that they would send health personnel along with essential medication from the Regional Tuberculosis Centre to assist in his treatment.