In 2019, she noticed a patch of skin with loss of sensation on her foot. She visited a Lepra health care worker who suspected leprosy and arranged for a formal diagnosis at a local clinic.
Due to fear of prejudice, Ferdusi only told her husband about her diagnosis and isolated herself from the local community. Her husband has been very supportive and his job at the local biscuit factory provides the family with financial security.
Ferdusi began a six-month course of multidrug therapy (MDT) but as she was reluctant to take the medicine, she missed doses and didn’t complete the full course. Due to the delay in her receiving full treatment, she developed painful ulcers on her feet.
Ferdusi continued to isolate herself from her neighbours and declined visits from Lepra staff. It wasn’t until three years later that Ferdusi decided to seek help. She was admitted to a leprosy hospital and given a further course of MDT which, this time, she managed to complete. By adhering to the treatment, Ferdusi was cured of the disease and no longer infectious.
To assist in the healing of her ulcer, Ferdusi attended a self-support group where she learnt the importance of self-care to avoid infection. She was also issued with protective footwear to help her avoid further injuries. Custom-made to alleviate pressure points, the shoes enabled Ferdusi to walk again with comfort and prevented dirt from entering the wound.
Although Ferdusi’s physical symptoms healed, she struggled with the emotional impact of her diagnosis. Neighbours mistakenly believe that she has a contagious disease, they avoid contact and hesitate to interact with her. This social neglect has deeply affected Ferdusi. Over time, she has withdrawn from people, choosing to isolate herself. Only her mother and her husband refuse to be influenced by society’s misconceptions. They give her their time, surround her with love, and remind her that she is not alone.
To help her cope with the trauma of social rejection, Lepra arranged counselling sessions, followed by specialist psychological support.
With Lepra and her family’s support, Ferdusi slowly rebuilt her self-confidence, and she continues to hold her head high.
Ferdusi is now much stronger and more resilient, she leads a local self-support group helping others on their journey of recovery.
Her advice to people with symptoms of leprosy is:
“Don't delay getting treatment.”