A leprosy specialist doctor has dedicated a prestigious award to her thousands of patients, adding she will continue her tireless work to improve their lives.Dr Renuka Ramakrishnan scooped the 2023 Robert Burns Humanitarian Award (RBHA) during an online ceremony which took place yesterday to celebrate Burns Night.The RBHA, supported by South Ayrshire Council’s Destination South Ayrshire team, recognises the inspiring hands-on humanitarian efforts from people and organisations across the globe.Dr Ramakrishnan has specialised in the treatment of Hansen’s Disease (leprosy) for the past 30 years, helping 10,000 leprosy patients receive free consultations and treatment.Based in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India, she is fondly known as ‘Doctor Amma’ and also acts as counsellor, mentor, motivational speaker, and educator.She also campaigns to raise awareness of breast cancer and crimes against women, children, and the transgender community.On receiving the award, Dr Ramakrishnan said: “I am humbled and honoured.
I am so thankful to God, my family, my patients, and my colleagues across India for this recognition.“To be recognised with an award that bears Robert Burns’ name itself is a privilege for me and is very special indeed.“Thank you to South Ayrshire Council and the judging panel who have chosen me for this wonderful award.“I dedicate this award to my leprosy patients and I will always work towards their upliftment in the community.”Martin Dowey, Chair of the RBHA judging panel, and Leader of South Ayrshire Council, congratulated Dr Ramakrishnan and said: “Without her work thousands of people would have been left without diagnosis, treatment and support.“She is an incredibly selfless humanitarian and thoroughly deserves this
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