Indonesian fisherman Dede, called the ‘Tree Man’, who had bark-like warts on his body for 22 years, is a new man. His life has radically transformed for good after doctors surgically removed 6 kg of warts from his face, arms and legs, Local doctors performed nine operations involving skin grafting, using an electric saw, and succeeded in removing 95% of the growths.

He first developed the roots on his body after he cut his knee when he 15, and within a decade it grew quite large. The roots covered most of his body, due to which he was sacked from his job, his wife left him, and he was dependent on others for any activity.

But now he can walk without pain, use his hand to write and eat, he is a happy man. His face, which had large warts spread evenly, appeared clear apart from a few blemishes. Doctors said he won’t be 100% cured, but his quality of life will definitely improve. However, the doctors have warned that it might re-grow, but the disease is not life-threatening anymore. The growths were a result of severe Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) infection, making it difficult to control the growth of warts. But his condition gained public attention, and an American doctor proposed a treatment that could change his life. After this, the Indonesian government intervened to get him treated.

Dede has to undergo further surgery to trim his remaining warts as doctors find ways to work on his immune system.

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