Pavers and Lepra take on barefoot fundraising challenge

On Friday 6 September, Lepra Ambassador and Chair of Pavers Shoes, Stuart Paver will join fellow colleague Steve Ovenden and Lepra’s Matt Lovelock in ‘The 100 Shoe Walk’.

‘The 100 Shoe Walk’ is a challenge event, walking three miles barefoot around the York Bar Walls. Their aim is to raise awareness of leprosy and lymphatic filariasis and to raise enough money to help fund the purchase of 100 pairs of protective shoes for people affected by the diseases.

Ulcers are common among people affected by leprosy due to nerve damage caused by the disease. Another contributing factor is uneven foot pressure – while walking. High pressure is exerted on areas of the feet, which can over time cause repetitive stress and damage, eventually resulting in ulcers.

If left untreated, or if there is continuous stress on one foot, ulcers can lead to further damage, infections and permanent disability. Having protective footwear takes the pressure off such areas and restores balance. It also helps to reduce the occurrence of ulcers and improve the healing of existing wounds. This in turn allows people to quickly return to their daily lives and an improvement in well-being.

In 2015, Pavers funded Lepra’s first mobile shoe van which travels across the Indian state of Bihar delivering protective custom-made shoes to help those affected by leprosy and lymphatic filariasis.

Stuart Paver, Chair, Pavers Shoes said:

“As Lepra’s Ambassador, I am looking forward to undertaking this challenge to continue the important work of raising awareness of leprosy and to help raise funds for vital footwear which can dramatically improve people’s lives.”

To support Stuart, Steve and Matt on their challenge, please visit their JustGiving page.

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