“When my leg got amputated (in December 2014), I thought to let it go and survive….I didn’t feel sad or anything, I was just processing it all and I think I reacted like that because I had been in the military,” Made Wirya said.

Wirya’s remarkable attitude is often seen in other people who seek support from PUSPADI Bali. Life dealt them a blow or they were born with a disability, but they pick themselves up and carry on the best they can.

Unfortunately for Wirya, (who had a long career in the military until he retired in 2000), diabetes and then an infection in his bone led to his leg being amputated. Diabetes is the world’s fastest growing chronic condition, affecting more than 10 million people in Indonesia – and the number is rapidly rising. Often, by the time people suffering the condition find support, it  can be too late and they are forced to amputate their limb or worse, die.

Education and robust health services are key to dealing with the issue but these are lacking in Bali and wider Indonesia, so, as a result, diabetes continues to be a major national health problem.

Wirya feels fortunate that he has received a free prosthetic leg from PUSPADI Bali so that he can continue functioning, as well as spending time with his grandchildren. He may have lost one of his legs due to diabetes but he was determined it wouldn’t rob him of his independence and what he wants in life.

“I like that I can walk again with a prosthetic – but before I got it, I was laying inside on the bed and it felt like a jail, but now I can go outside and walk again,” he said. “I don’t really think about it all though as I prefer to think of my grandchildren and my family.”

PUSPADI Bali empowers people with a disability with the confidence and resources, so they can focus on their life goals, dreams and daily activities. Through rehabilitation, they can receive regular prosthetics, orthotics, mobility aids or wheelchairs that are tailored to their needs. Many go on to take part in our education and training programs so that they can gain the necessary skills to be independent and work to support themselves.

It can be a long road to recovery but the people we support are willing to take on the challenge. Be a part of their journey by becoming a donor through our website .