Shumi Katun – New Face Of Leprosy

Shumi Katun is 23 years old, unmarried, and uneducated. She had leprosy aged 9, her father brought her to the doctor for treatment. She lost fingers and toes before taking her one year of antibiotics. She spent time in Shibganj hospital. She does daily self-care. She is wheelchair dependent using it for moving around. She does not work and depends on her father who drives a small van. Her bed is outside the main family sleeping area, inside the house. During the rainy season it is difficult for her to go to the bathroom. She goes outside about 4 times per week. She has difficulty getting off her bed and she needs help. Her family and neighbours have been friendly and helpful to her. Her biggest challenge is limited movement. She is proud of her family and neighbours. Her message is “if anyone get this disease please go for the treatment soon”.

Lepra district coordinator for Bogura Waheduzzaman Polu examines Shumi’s hands

Shumi’s family and community gather as we speak with her

The path is uneven, and she can’t use the wheelchair without help

Shumi is much more adept at getting down from the bed herself, though walking on her anaesthetic knees causes regular ulcers

The table outside the cowshed that Shumi used to sleep on

Shumi can’t write or hold a pen, but we made a polaroid to give to her anyway

11/04/2023 Bogura region, Bangladesh

Photography by Tom Bradley, writing by Prof Diana Lockwood