Leprosy Champions
Changing perceptions about leprosy
There are lots of sad and strange myths that surround leprosy. Some people think it is a curse, others think it is because of sin and too many people think it's dangerously contagious. It is none of these things. Being a leprosy champion means tackling these myths and championing the people who have experienced the disease, through all of their triumphs and their difficulties.
Empower yourself with the facts and share them with those around you.
Have you been diagnosed with leprosy?
If you are a person affected by leprosy, you can find local, national and international communities of other persons affected by leprosy all around you. We'd love to connect you to people who share your experiences.
The Wellesley Bailey Awards
Created in 1999 to celebrate the life and work of Mr Wellesley Bailey, founder of The Leprosy Mission, these unique awards honour those who have made extraordinary contributions to society through overcoming the social stigma and physical challenges of leprosy.
Celebrating leprosy champions
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Ratiya, the vicepresident of the Khushi self-help group (SHG), demonstrates that women, united, can go further
The Khushi self-help group (SHG) is one of many SHGs run by TLM Nepal, but it is unique in that it is run primarily by women! Vice President Rativa Devi Thakur notes that, as women, being included in these meetings is empowering. “Before joining Khushi SHG,” she said, “I never imagined leading meetings or talking to officials. Now, I not only manage group activities but also motivate other women to raise their voices for equal opportunities.”
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Rekha is the living proof that you can always stitch your life back together
Rekha, now 55 years old, has been affected by leprosy since she was around seven years old. After losing her mother at two and later undergoing a leg amputation, Rekha found a new way to rebuild their life while in the hospital: through knitting.
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From Struggle to Strength: Chandana’s Journey of Hope and Determination
Chandana’s goal was clear—to secure a stable job and uplift her family from poverty. She successfully completed her full course of treatment for leprosy and emerged stronger and more confident, ready to rebuild her dreams.
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Ratiya, the vicepresident of the Khushi self-help group (SHG), demonstrates that women, united, can go further
The Khushi self-help group (SHG) is one of many SHGs run by TLM Nepal, but it is unique in that it is run primarily by women! Vice President Rativa Devi Thakur notes that, as women, being included in these meetings is empowering. “Before joining Khushi SHG,” she said, “I never imagined leading meetings or talking to officials. Now, I not only manage group activities but also motivate other women to raise their voices for equal opportunities.”
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Rekha is the living proof that you can always stitch your life back together
Rekha, now 55 years old, has been affected by leprosy since she was around seven years old. After losing her mother at two and later undergoing a leg amputation, Rekha found a new way to rebuild their life while in the hospital: through knitting.
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From Struggle to Strength: Chandana’s Journey of Hope and Determination
Chandana’s goal was clear—to secure a stable job and uplift her family from poverty. She successfully completed her full course of treatment for leprosy and emerged stronger and more confident, ready to rebuild her dreams.