Although science has proved leprosy is not contagious, the age-old social stigma associated with the disease remains, leaving sufferers ostracized from the community.
Some patients strive to overcome their adverse circumstances and achieve happiness.
The source of their strength and motivation often comes directly from their loved ones.
Thanh Nien uncovered many inspirational stories at the Phu Binh leprosy treatment center in the northern mountainous province of Thai Nguyen.
Love
Pham Sy Thuong, 74, is one of the most senior patients at the center, admitted in 1960.
Despite his misfortunes, Thuong still hopes for a happy life for himself and his family.
Thuong’s life turned around in 1974 when he met Vu Thi Tai, who had been transferred to the Phu Binh center from another facility in north-ern Nghe An Province.
The couple grew close, fell in love and married the same year.
The center management supported the match and allotted them a small room and a modest income.
The pair grew vegetables and raised chickens to make ends meet.
“When I learned about my leprosy,I thought it would be the end of my life,” Thuong said.
“The love of my wife, however, rekindled my confidence. I also owe my happiness to the great support from the state and the center’s management in this regard.”
The marriage of another couple with leprosy, Chu Van Chuong and Hoang Thi Mui, encountered an early setback.
After tying the knot in 1984, Chuong and Mui decided a year later to try to have a baby, defying the center’s ban on leprosy patients having children
more info->Vietnam latest news - Thanh Nien Daily
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