The word leprosy probably evokes many images. Many may not know it still exists. It does in fact still exist, and many still suffer due to its devastating effects on the body, as well as the soul. Often those afflicted with the disease are outcasts, shunned by society.
Now more commonly called Hansen’s disease, leprosy occurs mainly in Asia, Africa, Latin America—mostly in Brazil, South Central Africa and India, where conditions may be crowded and unsanitary. But it isn’t limited to these areas and can crop up in the U.S. as well. While the incidence has gone down over time, there are still almost a quarter of a million people suffering from the disease (World Health Organization).
Leprosy is a bacterial disease, mainly affecting the skin, eyes and peripheral nerves. Until the 1940s it was untreatable, bu
t today, if caught early, treatment through modern medicine can be successful. But as you know, there are millions of poor worldwide who have little or no access to healthcare. And as you can see from this picture of a healthcare clinic in Vietnam, even if there is access to healthcare, it can be very limited, substandard and sorely in need of supplies. In addition to lack of healthcare, many, because of the stigma attached to the disease, fail to seek treatment or wait until the disease has progressed.
Leprosy Bandages
Simply stated, the bandages are just rows of single crochet using No. 10, 100% mercerized cotton in white, cream or ecru. There are several brands available, and some offer large balls, which saves you quite a bit over the smaller balls.
Instructions and mailing instructions can be found on the blog Leprosy Bandages. (See picture at right) The site contains pictures and posts on delivering the bandages and how this effort touches the lives of so many.
When you are done with your bandages, they should be sent directly to the "Bandage Brigade" (address posted on the Leprosy Bandages blog referenced above). They take care of all arrangements for the bandages to be delivered and distributed to the remote villages of Vietnam where they are most needed.
Bandages are transported in the luggage of Vietnam Veterans returning to do humanitarian work in Vietnam. Two of the groups involved in this are TOP and The D.O.V.E. Fund.
TOP (Tours of Peace) Vietnam Veterans, a nonprofit humanitarian organization, provides programs to help veterans and families heal and recover from the trauma of the Vietnam War. An important part of TOP is its humanitarian effort, which includes helping distribute bandages and other supplies to leprosy villages.
The D.O.V.E. Fund is a non-profit corporation founded by several Vietnam veterans, Rotarians, and other concerned citizens in January 2000, in Toledo, Ohio. Their mission is to provide humanitarian and development assistance to areas in Vietnam; to promote communication, education, and cultural exchanges that reflect the best qualities of both cultures; and to create an environment brightened by hope and sustained by peace.
So here is a chance to use your crocheting skills, no matter what skill level, to help others in need.
In future blogs I will share information about other charities looking for crocheted items that even a rookie can make.
Happy Hooking,
Blue Ridge Mountain Girl
PS--if you make a bandage(s), I'd love to know. I will keep track of the number donated here.
Well, I wasn't off to a great start. This is what happens when you combine these three factors, a rookie crocheter, a migraine and starting a project past bedtime. 
I made my bandage with a D hook, No. 10 Aunt Lydia's cotton thread and a starting chain of 24 stitches, which gave me a bandage almost exactly 3" wide. Since everyone crochets a little differently, you may have to adjust yours by a stitch or two.
