Intrigued by Madagascar
“Through my work for health and human rights organisations in the UK, I began to realise what huge suffering people encounter in Madagascar. In 2008 I joined a group of LEPRA Health in Action supporters to experience this wonderful country.”
LEPRA put Julie in touch with the Tanjamoha community (near the village of Vohipeno in the south). She worked as a physiotherapist, volunteering for a three-month period. Julie recalls: “I was greeted with amazing kindness and I spent my time helping those with physical disabilities caused by polio, TB and neurological impairments, as a result of leprosy and malaria.”
During her time on the island, Julie participated in LEPRA’s Bike Ride covering some of the most beautiful and dramatic scenery of the south-east coast over a two-week period. “In the villages we were welcomed by unbelievably poor people with the most wonderful smiles.”
“The people in Tanjamoha that I met are a marvellous example for us all, and I will certainly carry some of their compassion and joy with me as I return to my job with the NHS.”
The current political upheaval in Madagascar brings into focus the difficulties experienced by the people of this country.
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“I show the articles to health staff, as well as patients, to remind them of the continuing problem of leprosy and its stigma around the world.”
Tuberculosis and Leprosy Control, Texas
