The Leprosy Mission

The Leprosy Mission is a leading international Christian development mission working in around 30 countries. We have served people affected by leprosy since 1874. Our work covers medical treatment, education, detection, rehabilitation, advocacy and the reintegration of people into their communities.  We focus on three areas: South Asia, East Asia/Pacific and Africa.

 

Leprosy is still a disease of our time. Every year over 300,000 new patients are diagnosed and registered for treatment. But because of the stigma associated with leprosy and the consequent reluctance to seek medical care, it is estimated that even more cases go undetected.

 

Although leprosy is found in all sectors of society, it often traps the most vulnerable in a cycle of poverty. Leprosy is a human rights issue and our work goes beyond curing a disease. Our strategy includes strengthening communities and advocating for people who have no voice. We help to create health-promoting environments and support local health systems.

 

The Leprosy Mission is recognised in the countries where it operates for the quality of its work and commitment to assist anybody affected by leprosy, without discrimination.

At Gerrards Cross Methodist Church we aim to raise at least £1,000 each year for The Leprosy Mission. We supply special Leprosy Mission Collecting Boxes.   The proceeds and individual donations are always acknowledged by letter. We also arrange an annual Coffee Morning incorporating a Bring & Buy Stall. This event usually attracts people from the local community and is recognized as one of the most successful events of the year. Individuals occasionally arrange sponsored events in order to achieve our annual targets.

Annual Report 2010-11
I am delighted to report that the money raised for The Leprosy Mission (including Gift Aid) during the year ended 31 August 2011 amounted to a magnificent £1,221.52.

The Leprosy Mission is committed to its vision of a world without leprosy and an important aspect in achieving this is its engagement in leprosy research.  Scientists globally are working on a leprosy vaccine but progress is slow. The leprosy bacteria is the slowest growing bacteria known to man, so research takes longer than for many other diseases.

There are three ways to diagnose leprosy:  identifying swelling or loss of sensation in peripheral nerves, an anaesthetic skin patch or leprosy bacteria in the skin. However, by the time patients report with symptoms, permanent damage and disability may have already occurred and there is no test available to screen people, who have not yet developed obvious symptoms. But progress is being made and our targets of raising at least £1,000 every year helps. Thank you.  

For more information, please contact Ken Walker, your local TLM contact for Gerrard’s Cross Methodist Church.  To email Ken click here.