Kathmandu — Israel-based social worker Sunita Gurung has contributed Rs 100,000 to support the medical treatment of Nepal national women’s football team captain Sabitra Bhandari, who is preparing for complex knee surgery following serious ligament injuries.
Bhandari, widely known as Samba, recently disclosed through social media that she has sustained significant complications in both knees. She said the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) graft from a previous surgery has been damaged, and she has also suffered an injury to her medial collateral ligament (MCL), requiring another surgical procedure.
Estimated Treatment Cost
Preliminary medical estimates indicate that the surgery and subsequent rehabilitation, expected to last seven to eight months, could cost approximately USD 80,000. Bhandari has expressed her intention to undergo treatment at Aspetar Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Hospital in Qatar, where she previously received specialized care.
Following her public appeal, fundraising efforts have expanded across Nepal and within the Nepali diaspora. Financial assistance is being collected through personal bank accounts and online crowdfunding platforms.
Background of the Donor
Gurung, originally from Bhojpur, Nepal, has lived in Israel for approximately 15 years. She has been involved in community initiatives related to health, education, disaster relief and local development. She previously served as Vice President of the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) Israel and has held a leadership role in Bhojpur Service Society Israel.
According to individuals familiar with her activities, Gurung made the contribution after learning about the financial challenges associated with Bhandari’s treatment.
Athlete’s Commitment
Bhandari has played a central role in promoting Nepal’s women’s football internationally. Despite the injury setback, she has stated that she remains determined to complete her treatment and return to competitive football representing Nepal.
