“Now there is significant progress in my health,” said Emaway, 34, a mother of two in rural Ethiopia.
Displaced by conflict in her home country, Emaway developed podoconiosis about six years ago. Podo is caused by long-term exposure to silica and aluminum silicates in the volcanic soil used for farming. It causes extreme swelling of the feet and lower legs, accompanied by attacks of excruciating pain.
“I didn’t have any hope that I’d get better when the acute attacks happened,” said Emaway. “I cried so much, and I couldn’t do anything to relieve the pain.” These debilitating symptoms disrupt lives, making it difficult if not impossible for people to work their land or earn a living.
Emaway learned about IOCC’s work addressing podo when IOCC-trained health professionals visited a church community. There, she heard about IOCC-supported clinics in her area and how she could treat and manage the disease.
“I [first] received treatment at an IOCC-supported health center two years ago,” she said. “After treatment, my acute attacks decreased, and I was able to wear shoes. Now I’m very well and do my business, run errands, and walk to church as I used to before contracting the disease.”
Emaway’s health and hope are renewed.
