the lost children of leprosy

Across the world, countless young children are forced to sacrifice their education and childhood. Every day, children are thrust into the role of caregiver; cooking meals and tending to the most basic needs of their families living with the effects of leprosy. Their hands take on the burden of adulthood, and in doing so, they risk catching this devastating disease which would condemn them to a a life of pain and stigma. Each day they move further away from a normal chilldhood and the education that could lift them out of poverty. 

Aarju, 11, from Lamjung, Nepal

The silent burden on young shoulders

At just 11, Aarju cared for her six-year-old brother under the guardianship of their elderly grandparents in poverty-stricken Lamjung, Nepal. Their struggles worsened when their father was diagnosed with leprosy, faced stigma, turned to alcohol and tragically, passed away during treatment at a Green Pastures Hospital (GPH). Aarju and her brother, also diagnosed with leprosy, began Multidrug Therapy (MDT), but poverty, travel costs and stigma hindered their recovery. Now under GPH's care, Aarju is receiving treatment and learning self-care. 

Debora, from Ezza North, Nigeria

The shattered dreams in Nigeria 

Debora dreams of becoming a tailor and finishing school but paused her education to care for her father, a 51 year-old-farmer from Ezza North, Nigeria. His leprosy journey began in 2008 with misdiagnosed skin patches which were not confirmed as leprosy until 2016. Despite a year of MDT, complications arose leaving him with clawed hands and a severe foot ulcer making him unable to work. Now on his fifth hospital stay, the family struggles with poverty, which has forced Debora and her siblings to leave school. 

Farmer, Chief Maurice Ushoga, who is affected by leprosy, with his wife, Theresa, and two of his six children aged seven to twenty-one.

St Francis Leprosy Guild is working tirelessly to protect these children and give them hope for a brighter future - but we can't do it alone. We need your support to continue this vital work.

How can you help? 

We are asking you to stand with us to support children affected by leprosy.
Your generosity can make an immediate and lasting impact.
We believe that no child should have to give up their future because of leprosy.
With your support, we can help to ensure they receive the care, education and opportunities they deserve. 

Your continued support means the world to us. Together we can change more lives.