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Egypt - Still fighting the "STIGMA"
There have been two reports from this ancient land this year, one is very sad and the other full of hope. In a letter from Cairo the word "STIGMA" appears three times, and each time printed as above. The Comboni Missionary Sisters say 'there are patients hidden in the villages for the "STIGMA", and when they recognize that they are losing their limbs they come to the Centre'.
'We are trying to convince these patients to trust in us, in the doctors and in the medicine ... really this "STIGMA" reigns in this country too much.'
But even when a cure is achieved she stigma still remains 'a girl aged 16 was sent home after a very good result. Her sister-in-law refuse (sic) her to stay with the others, to take food with the rest of the family and so on ... she came back to the Centre searching comprehension and love'
This vividly demonstrates a very real problem which is not particular to Egypt but is known wherever Leprosy is endemic. Fortunately the good results of modern treatment are being seen and gradually the realisation that early treatment prevents disfigurement is growing so that patients are no longer hidden away but come forward quickly. it all takes time but change is coming.
And now for the good news
Five girls who are the daughters of leprosy patients have received a Government diploma for 'Cut and Sewing'. They spent two years learning to read and write and then three years on a sewing course. As a result they can now set up in business and become independent.
The home also has some knitting machines used mainly by patients and last year they made a jersey for each patient and for each of their children.
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Directing you to the St Francis Leprosy Guild Website, thank you for your patience.
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