Due to the delay in her seeking treatment, she experienced extreme swelling, pain and fever.
She initially sought treatment from a homeopathic doctor, but her symptoms worsened which increased her anxiety and made it difficult for her to continue her household chores. By the time she was officially diagnosed by Lepra staff, she had spent a considerable sum on treatment and had seen no improvement.
Rubi was referred to the ASPIRE project funded by Lepra and Effect Hope. She attended a self-support group where she learnt the importance of self-care and was given a pair of protective sandals. With continued self-care practice and wearing of the footwear, Rubi’s condition began to improve. In three months, she reported a 30 percent reduction of her swelling.
The emotional support Rubi received from her family helped to improve her confidence and wellbeing.
“Attending a self-support group increased mine and my family’s knowledge on the management of LF.”
Rubi is now an activist in her village, signposting people with symptoms to a local referral centre.