Saving Young Hearts
A groundbreaking Global Grant project to screen school children for Rheumatic Heart Disease across Nepal, training healthcare workers and providing life-saving early detection and treatment.
Project Overview
This Rotary Foundation Global Grant project (GG2347069) received $43,262 USD in funding to improve early detection of Rheumatic Heart Disease in Nepal through training auxiliary healthcare staff and implementing community screening programs using portable echocardiography devices.
Early Detection
Expand echocardiography screening of school children for timely diagnosis and prevention of Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD) across Nepal.
Healthcare Training
Train auxiliary healthcare staff (nurses/paramedics) in RHD-focused echocardiography using portable devices to create a larger pool of skilled professionals nationwide.
Treatment Support
Provide direct treatment support to diagnosed children and connect families with ongoing medical care and support services.
Project Timeline
A comprehensive 18-month implementation spanning training, equipment procurement, and nationwide screening campaigns.
Team Assembly & Equipment Procurement
Identified and recruited 3 auxiliary healthcare staff for training. Equipment procurement process began in August 2023 and was completed in February 2024.
Training Program
Completed intensive training program for 3 auxiliary healthcare staff on RHD-focused echocardiography. Training materials were finalized by September 2024, while core training of 3 staff was completed in October 2023.
Screening & Treatment Support
Conducted extensive screening programs across multiple districts. Simultaneously provided treatment identification and support services through December 2024.
Equipment Handover
Official handover of echocardiography device to Nepal Heart Foundation during club meeting, ensuring project sustainability.
Project Completion
Finalized treatment support for 33 identified children, completed documentation, and produced project documentary film.
Our Partners
This project was made possible through the collaboration of dedicated organizations and individuals committed to children’s heart health.
Rotary Club of Patan
Host Sponsor
Project leadership, implementation management, and local coordination in District 3292.
Rotary Club of Livingston
International Sponsor
Financial support and international partnership from District 7475, New Jersey, USA.
Nepal Heart Foundation
Cooperating Organization
Technical expertise, training venue, and ongoing operational support for sustainability.
The Rotary Foundation
Grant Provider
Global Grant funding of $43,262 USD enabling comprehensive project implementation.
Measurable Impact
Our project delivered concrete results that will save lives and prevent disabilities for years to come. Monitoring and recordkeeping were jointly handled by Nepal Heart Foundation and RC Patan’s project leads to ensure accountability and impact measurement.
Geographic Reach
Screening programs conducted in multiple districts including Galkot (Baglung), Siddhipur & Harisiddhi (Lalitpur), Sanga (Kabre), Sarah & Janakpur, Bajhang, Bajura & Achham, Hetauda (Makwanpur), Ganabahal, Kavre, and Kathmandu – covering both urban centers and remote mountain regions.
Detection Success
Through systematic screening, we identified children requiring medical intervention and successfully provided treatment support to 33 children at Gangalal Hospital in Kathmandu, with many more receiving preventive medication.
Sustainable Capacity
Trained 3 auxiliary healthcare professionals who continue to serve communities nationwide, with comprehensive training materials and portable equipment ensuring program continuation.
Join Our Mission
This project demonstrates what’s possible when Rotarians unite for a common cause. Learn more about our ongoing community health initiatives and how you can get involved.