The Inspiring Journey of International Fellowship of Nepal (INF): Bringing Life in All Its Fullness
The International Fellowship of Nepal (INF) stands as an enduring beacon of hope, a testament to the power of perseverance, faith, and dedication to a noble cause. Established in the 1930s, INF is an interdenominational and international Christian mission committed to bringing life in all its fullness to the people of Nepal. The vision for this impactful work began when Nepal was closed off to the outside world, and two pioneering women, Lily O’Hanlon and Hilda Steel, initiated medical work among the Nepali people in the Indian town of Nautanwa.
Despite the formidable challenges and the closed borders of Nepal, Lily and Hilda patiently waited and prayed for an opportunity to extend their mission to the people of Nepal. In 1952, after 16 years of unwavering dedication, Nepal finally opened its doors, allowing a small group of medical missionaries, including Lily and Hilda, to walk north from the Indian border to the Pokhara valley. With the blessing of the Nepali Government, they established a clinic and later the 'Shining Hospital,' marking the beginning of INF's transformative journey.
From its humble beginnings, INF has evolved into an organization recognized for its innovative and successful approaches to community health and development work. Since the establishment of the 'Shining Hospital' in 1954, INF has expanded its reach, establishing hospitals and clinics across the West and Mid-Western Regions of Nepal. Always pushing into new frontiers, INF opened its most remote office in the district of Bajura in 2013, exemplifying its commitment to reaching underserved communities.
Notable Initiatives:
INF has been at the forefront of numerous health camps and initiatives, showcasing its commitment to the well-being of the Nepali people. Notable activities include comprehensive health camps in earthquake-affected Rukum West, ongoing earthquake response with winterization support, disability screening health camps in Bajura, and the strengthening of disaster preparedness and response in Rolpa.
Green Pastures Hospital:
For nearly six decades, Green Pastures Hospital (GPH) in Pokhara has been a beacon of hope, providing treatment and care for individuals living with leprosy. The hospital's enduring commitment to its mission reflects INF's dedication to alleviating the suffering of those in need.
In November 2015, INF opened the Ear Centre as part of Green Pastures Hospital in Pokhara. This center has become a symbol of transformative change, where individuals experience the restoration of hearing and the joy of newfound sounds. The story of a young man's repaired ear drum and a young girl celebrating her new hearing aids illustrates the profound impact of INF's work on individuals' lives.
The Impact of INF's Community Health and Development Work:
Beyond the confines of hospitals and clinics, INF has left an indelible mark on the landscape of community health and development in Nepal. Through its unwavering commitment to innovation, INF has successfully implemented a variety of programs aimed at enhancing the overall well-being of Nepali communities.
One of the significant initiatives is the comprehensive health camp in earthquake-affected Rukum West, showcasing INF's agility in responding to emergencies. The organization's ongoing earthquake response with winterization support has provided crucial assistance to communities grappling with the aftermath of natural disasters. Disability screening health camps in Bajura exemplify INF's dedication to inclusivity and ensuring that no one is left behind in their pursuit of health and well-being.
Strengthening disaster preparedness and response in Rolpa is another feather in INF's cap, demonstrating its foresight and commitment to building resilient communities. These initiatives underscore INF's holistic approach to healthcare, addressing not only immediate medical needs but also contributing to the long-term development and resilience of communities.
Green Pastures Hospital, standing tall in Pokhara for almost 60 years, symbolizes INF's enduring commitment to serving those marginalized by society. Beyond providing medical treatment for leprosy, GPH serves as a sanctuary of compassion, where individuals find solace, acceptance, and hope. The hospital's sustained impact on the lives of countless individuals speaks to INF's unwavering dedication to alleviating suffering and restoring dignity.
The establishment of the Ear Centre in Pokhara, part of Green Pastures Hospital, is a testament to INF's commitment to addressing a range of healthcare needs. Opened in November 2015, the Ear Centre has become a hub of transformative change, where individuals experience the joy of restored hearing. The poignant stories of a young man's repaired ear drum and a young girl celebrating her newfound ability to hear showcase the profound impact that INF's initiatives have on the lives of individuals.
The International Fellowship of Nepal (INF) has traversed a remarkable journey, from the borders of India to the remote corners of Nepal, bringing life in all its fullness to those in need. The organization's commitment to innovation, perseverance, and compassion has made it a cornerstone in the landscape of healthcare and development in Nepal. As INF continues to reach new heights, its legacy of positive impact and transformative change serves as an inspiration for organizations and individuals dedicated to making a difference in the world. INF's holistic approach, coupled with its enduring dedication to marginalized communities, exemplifies the transformative power of compassionate healthcare and stands as a shining example of what can be achieved when faith and action converge.