"The pain was excruciating. It hurt so much that my arms and legs would often feel numb."

Who could've guessed that a normal family dinner could turn into a nightmare and change someone's life within seconds. That was the case for Sanjeev Magar, who sustained first degree burns after a pressure cooker burst open, spilling hot lentils all over him. It left disfiguring scars that covered his neck, chest, hands and feet.

"At just 20, my brother had to experience a level of pain that most people can't even imagine,"" says Sanjeev's sister. "He always enjoyed helping and interacting with people, and dreamed of joining the Nepal Army, but now he refuses to be seen by anyone outside the family—afraid of the way people will view him, the comments they will pass, and the faces they will make,"" she adds.

Sanjeev's condition makes him ineligible to be selected in the Nepal Army at present. "A few scars on my body became the reason I can no longer pursue my dream. It is the type of heartbreaking experience that I wouldn't wish on anyone,"" says Sanjeev.

Doctors have said that his burns are slowly healing, but it may still take time for the scars to disappear; some may even be permanent.

But the perseverance, strength and courage that Sanjeev has demonstrated are elements that no scar can ever take away. Although his desire to be able to serve the country is still a dream, Sanjeev is already a hero.

This painting depicts the patient's wound and pain, alongside his unwavering endurance.

(The name of the patient has been changed to protect his identity.)