Kathmandu, 28 november 2024.
Before 1997, Nepal lacked specialized burn care facilities, and individuals suffering from severe burn injuries had access only to general medical treatment. Burn care was largely neglected by the government. The tragic death of Sushma Koirala, wife of the late Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala, at the age of 40 due to a refrigerator explosion, brought attention to this urgent need.
Inspired by her memory, their daughter Sujata Koirala initiated the establishment of a burn care hospital to ensure that no one would die due to inadequate burn treatment. Thus, the Sushma Koirala Memorial Hospital was founded in 7th November 1997.
Hein Stahl emerged as a pivotal figure in transforming Sujata Koirala’s vision into reality. Often referred to as a “godsend” for burn patients in Nepal, Hein not only conceptualized the hospital but also personally contributed to its development. He provided expertise and resources, including electricity and water supply, and laid the foundation for a state-of-the-art plastic surgery operation theater and wards. Under his meticulous guidance, the hospital was equipped with:Earthquake-proof buildings,Solar-powered hot water supply,An in-house sewage treatment plant ,An environmentally friendly waste incineration system
It was not and end Hein’s commitment extended beyond infrastructure. He sponsored the training of Nepalese doctors, nurses, physiotherapists, and lab technicians, building a skilled team dedicated to burn care. This effort made the Sushma Koirala Memorial Hospital the first specialized burn care center in Nepal with 5 beded fully equipped Intensive Care Unit (ICU) for burn patients .
The hospital provided free treatment to burn patients, including surgery, food, lodging, and medicine for poor and needy patients . Till date 483,022 patients examined,32,864 surgeries were performed where 15,735 free ,35 free surgical camps in remote areas, performing 4,758 surgeries to date
Hein also emphasized on outreach, surgical camps in underserved regions to provide care where it was most needed.
Despite its vital contributions, the hospital has not been formally recognized by the Nepalese government as a burn hospital. Hein has expressed concern over this oversight and the government’s preference for funding other institutions while ignoring the Sushma Koirala Memorial Hospital.
At the age of 82, Hein continues to support burn patients by covering treatment costs, providing transportation, and supporting education for patients in need. The COVID-19 pandemic and the Ukraine-Russia war have reduced donations, which makes difficult to run the project but Hein remains dedicated to fundraising efforts.
Recently, Hein delegated his responsibility to his successor, Prof. Dr. Albert, during a farewell event organized by Hospital. This marked the end of Hein’s direct involvement but not his lifelong dedication to the cause. His unwavering efforts and compassion have forever changed the lives of thousands of burn patients in Nepal.
