history

In its onslaught on mankind, leprosy has left a trail of pain and suffering that dates back thousands of years. Researchers believe leprosy has existed since  4000 BC.

History

Leprosy is one of the most misunderstood diseases. Throughout human history, it  is feared; a whole host of myths and misconceptions surround the disease since time immemorial. As far as the mistaken beliefs are concerned, many believe leprosy is a hereditary disease, a curse, or a punishment from God. Even after discovering the germ that causes the disease, leprosy patients are stigmatised and shunned. They are disparagingly called ‘lepers’ and many of them are forced to live as outcasts in ‘leprosy colonies’.Almost 150 years ago, one man’s spirit of adventure took him to India. There, the future course of his life was set in motion. He saw the appalling living conditions and the social isolation of people with leprosy. His compassion and action birthed The Leprosy Mission, an organisation that now works to bring healing, inclusion and dignity to leprosy-affected people around the world.

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