2,000 years ago, Jesus did something radical. He reached out to people affected by leprosy. People who were unwanted, banished from their families, and pushed to the outskirts of towns.

Today, leprosy is still one of the most stigmatised diseases in the world.

But together, we are following in Jesus’ footsteps and breaking down the barriers of discrimination and exclusion.

Growing up in North Africa, Adam had a happy childhood. He was just 11 years old when leprosy changed everything.

Adam began to lose the feeling in his hands and feet. Infected wounds slowly destroyed his fingers too.

Adam’s family went from doctor to doctor, trying to find out what was wrong. But no one could help. The government in his country said there was no leprosy.

Adam wouldn’t give up. He even contacted the WHO online. Eventually, someone replied and diagnosed him from photos. Adam managed to get the cure at a local hospital. But it was too late to restore the damage to his hands.

“Everyone believed I was cursed”

Adam needed his community’s support more than ever. Instead, he faced heartbreaking rejection.

“At 15 I had to leave the school I loved. I was bullied and no-one would play games with me anymore.

“My wider family were scared of me. They stayed away. I felt frightened about the future, and so depressed.

“Everyone believed I was cursed. As more people found out that I had leprosy, the hatred towards me grew. For a year, I didn’t leave the house. I forgot people and voices. Death threats hung over me like a dark shadow.”

Love and acceptance, thanks to you

One day, Adam reached out to the UN Special Rapporteur for Leprosy. His messages were read! And thanks to kind people like you, The Leprosy Mission could respond.

Adam was referred to Danja Hospital in Niger. He was welcomed with open arms. And after years of pain, he finally found the care, compassion, and acceptance he deserved.

“I am so thankful for Danja Hospital. There is no discrimination here, just love.”

Thank you for your compassion for people affected by leprosy facing stigma. Because you care, people like Adam know that they are not alone and that they matter. Thank you for standing, acting, and praying for inclusion and justice.

Pray for people like Adam

• Pray that the Lord will surround people affected by leprosy facing stigma with His comfort and peace.
• Pray that they will know that they are seen and loved, and that are valued in His sight.
• Pray that Jesus will soften hearts towards people affected by leprosy, and bless all those working to fight discrimination.