As is now an annual tradition, the international day of charitable giving, Giving Tuesday (3 December 2024) has become known by Lepra as ‘Giving Shoesday’; when the charity celebrates the life-changing impact of protective footwear.
One of the main symptoms of leprosy is nerve damage, meaning people affected are unable to feel pain. This leaves them vulnerable to burns, cuts, ulcers and injuries that can potentially lead to severe damage to hands and feet resulting in permanent disability. Lymphatic filariasis (LF) can cause severe swelling in the feet and legs, making it difficult to wear standard shoes.
Lepra’s protective footwear serves as an essential element of self-care, providing not only protection from injury and improved mobility but also playing an important role in overcoming the social and emotional impact of leprosy and LF.
Lepra’s Corporate Partnerships Manager, Matt Lovelock visited Bihar in October to see how donations are helping to provide life-changing footwear for vulnerable people. At Ramanager Leprosy settlement, he met Malti, a 60-year-old widow with severe disabilities caused by a late diagnosis.
He said:
“Without protective shoes, walking is painful and dangerous for Malti. But now, thanks to Lepra’s custom-made shoes, she can walk comfortably, perform daily tasks, and even venture to the market without fear of injury or judgment. Seeing the joy on her face as she tried on her new closed-toe shoes is something I’ll never forget.”
The introduction of closed-toe shoes is a breakthrough for individuals like Malti, helping to reduce the stigma associated with leprosy. These shoes not only protect her feet but also allow her to move through public spaces with confidence.
A pair of life-changing shoes costs £6.50. Thanks to last year’s Giving Shoesday Appeal, Lepra were able to provide 29,952 pairs of protective footwear, helping to restore people’s hope, dignity, and independence.
For more information on Lepra, please visit: www.lepra.org.uk.
