Chronic ulcers severely impact the mobility and quality of life of Leprosy Cured but Deformed Persons (LCDPs), sometimes leading to limb loss. Sri Ramakrishna Math, Chennai along with SAKSHAM Savita provides ulcer dressing services at eight locations across Tamil Nadu.
With permission from the Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine (DPH), these services are now extended to Carnation Govt. Hospital, Kumbakonam. The initiative, in collaboration with DPH and Kumbakonam City Health Office, was launched on 10th May 2024. This is the second site for ulcer care services in Kumbakonam, with ongoing services already provided at Vallalar Home (Muthupillai Mandapam).
On 9th May, volunteers Shri. Siva Ramakrishna and Dr S.Sivasubramanian visited Town Portar Hall, where Swami Vivekananda delivered lectures in 1897, offering prayers for the LCDPs’ well-being. These volunteers along with NLEP staff from Thanjavur met City Health Officer (CHO) Dr. Adalarasi, briefing her about the initiative and inviting her to the inaugural event.
The team also assessed the wound burden of LCDPs at Vallalar Home (Muthupillai Mandapam) and Iswarya Nagar, where 50 LCDPs reside. The inaugural event on 10th May included officials from DPH, NLEP and doctors of Carnation Hospital. Dr. Adalarasi and Dr. R. Gunaseelan (Deputy Director, DD(L), Thanjavur) were Chief Guests.
The event began with lighting the lamp and offering Pushpanjali to the Holy Trio. Shri. Siva Ramakrishna spoke about the ulcer burden prevalence among LCDPs. Dr S.Sivasubramanian talked about the promising results on healing ulcers using biomaterials developed for the cause. NLEP staff spoke about the necessity of addressing the challenge. Dr. Gunaseelan emphasized the importance of ulcer care for LCDPs and prevention of deformities. Dr. Adalarasi applauded Sri Ramakrishna Math, Chennai efforts and assured cooperation. Rtd. Headmaster Shri. G. Venkataraman, long-time supporter and Shri. S. Sasikumar, Volunteer were honoured.
Following the official meet, the ulcer dressing camp was inaugurated and the camp treated 25 LCDPs. Their feet were soaked in EUSOL solution, ulcers were assessed and dressed with medicine, and they all received self-care kits.
Senior Advocate Shri. D. Jayapal (Managing Trustee, Vallalar Memorial Charitable Trust) participated in the occasion as a Special Guest. The camp highlighted the commitment to improving LCDPs' health and quality of life. Breakfast, tea and conveyance are given for all LCDPs attending the camp every week.