Leprosy is a disease that affects the nerve endings in the hands and feet and can affect the blink reflex of the eyelids. If not treated early enough it can cause life changing disabilities and even blindness. One in two people diagnosed with leprosy suffer moderate to severe depression and anxiety due to the prejudice and discrimination associated with the disease. Many children are unable to attend school and adults are cast out from their communities and forces to live isolated lives away from their family and friends. But it is curable!
2024 was Lepra’s Centenary Year and for over 100 years Lepra’s research has led to new and innovative approaches to healthcare programmes. Lepra seeks to provide better detection, treatment and support mechanisms, to advocate for those without a voice, to challenge prejudice wherever it exists, to strengthen local health systems and to help provide sustainable healthcare in partnership with local communities for a future free from the terrible impact of the disease.
It costs £25 to change a life and if found early enough and treatment provided, the disease can be halted preventing disability. With a course of multidrug therapy, it is possible to cure leprosy and after just one tablet a person is non infectious. With your help we hope that leprosy will one day be beaten.
Donate today at donate.lepra.org.uk
To read some real-life stories of some of the beneficiaries whose lives have been changed through the work of Lepra, please visit www.lepra.org.uk