She does not have to walk alone

She does not have to walk alone

When the Karuna Team of SSCS India met her in a remote village at the brick kiln, she responded with a mix of fear and relief. Fear—because she was pregnant, newly diagnosed with leprosy, and uncertain about her future and her child’s well-being. Relief—because, after a year of undetected illness, someone had finally noticed and offered help.

This 32 years old woman, works at the brick kiln to support her family. Over the past six months, leprosy had caused her hand to swell and claw, making daily tasks even more challenging. The Karuna Team’s dedicated efforts—conducting house-to-house surveys in brick kilns and government schools—led them to her, ensuring she was no longer overlooked.

With compassion and expertise, the team counselled her, bandaged her hand, provided her with microcellular rubber sandals to protect her feet, and started her on multi-drug therapy for a cure. They reassured her with promises of follow-up visits and referred her to the local primary health centre for any emergencies. Though the road ahead remains uncertain, she does not have to walk alone.