KIT Blog

WARNING: Details of this story may be distressing.

Rukkaiya’s journey seeking treatment for her ulcer has taken two harrowing years. Pregnant and in pain, she barely survived the costly surgery on her leg at her local hospital, only to return home to experience armed bandits attacking her village.

“All the community members fled, but due to the ulcer, I was not able to run. My husband took our children and I stayed behind. It was terrifying,” she told us.

Threatened by nine armed men, randomly shooting their guns, the bandits eventually took one of the community cows and shot the other one. A villager was also killed.

Now Rukkaiya has finally made it to the Gusau leprosy clinic and through the treatment she is receiving there, she is seeing an improvement. Thanks to your support.

“Before I came to this clinic I was unable to sleep at night. I was so worried, as the ulcer was getting worse. But now I can sleep, knowing I am getting good care. The severe pain has subsided and the wound is healing, and through regular soaking, oiling and dressing, and with taking antibiotics and other medicines it is definitely helping,” she told us. Thank you.

Rukkaiya’s request:

“I want God to heal me and for me to stay in one piece. When this happens, I know all will be well.

Please pray health and safety for Rukkaiya, her husband and four children, (daughter, Saima, also pictured). To support people affected by leprosy and other neglected tropical diseases in Nigeria, call FREECALL 1800 LEPROSY (1800 537 767) or go to: www.leprosymission.org.au/nigeria