Five years ago, Rupon noticed blisters on a foot and a visiting health worker recognised this as a symptom of leprosy. Her neighbours were accepting of her diagnosis and encouraged her to seek treatment. Referred to a local health clinic, she began a six-month course of multidrug therapy. Rupon is thankful of the support from her family who accompany her to clinic appointments.
Due to the delay in her diagnosis and continuing to walk barefoot, Rupon’s blisters became infected, and she developed a painful ulcer. Lepra staff explained to her the importance of practising self-care techniques to prevent further infection. She was given a pair of custom-made protective sandals to enable her walk in comfort while allowing her wounds to heal. Rupon looks forward to her injuries fully healing so that she no longer feels embarrassed walking barefoot at her local temple.
Lepra supported Rupon in starting her own smallholding, helping to improve her family’s finances which had been impacted by her diagnosis.
When Rupon sees other people with leprosy symptoms, she shares her experience and gives them hope.
