A walk, talks and a special quiz to transform lives across Asia and Africa
Charlotte Walker, The Leprosy Mission
A special long weekend in Guernsey in support of The Leprosy Mission’s life-changing work in Asia and Africa raised more than £6,000.
Chris Stratta and Jonny Wicks from The Leprosy Mission would like to thank everyone who attended the Big Quiz at St Martin’s Community Centre on Friday, 18 September, and the four talks held over their four-day visit.
Chris, who leads The Leprosy Mission’s work in Guernsey and visits the island twice a year, spent Saturday walking from Les Cotils Hotel, following a breakfast talk, along the coastal path to Fort Saumarez, clocking up 19 miles in just under six hours.
Chris Stratta, The Leprosy Mission’s Community Partnerships Manager for Guernsey, completes his 19-mile fundraising hike from Les Cotils Hotel to Fort Saumarez in just under six hours on Saturday.
He said: “Although I still have sore feet, it was such a special time, and I loved taking in the breathtaking beauty of Guernsey.
“More importantly, the generosity and encouragement of people in Guernsey and back home meant I raised enough money to fund four bespoke prosthetic limbs, giving the gift of independence to four people who have lost their lower legs due to complications caused by leprosy.
“I was so touched by everyone’s support and by the incredibly warm welcome from the people of Guernsey. They have truly taken the cause of helping people affected by leprosy to their hearts and are doing everything they can to help rid the world of the terrible injustice of a disease that should no longer exist in the 21st century.
“We had a lot of fun at the Big Quiz with our wonderful host, Sean McManus, and reigning champions 'The Alternative Facts' were crowned winners once again.
“My September visit is always a happy time and a real encouragement. It is inspiring to witness the community spirit in Guernsey and the passion people have for helping those living thousands of miles away who are in desperate need.”
The funds raised will help support Leprosy Mission teams to cure and transform the lives of people affected by leprosy through medical care, rehabilitation and opportunities to build their futures.