The Leprosy Mission (TLM)

When The Leprosy Mission (TLM) was founded in 1874, there was little that could be done to help patients beyond caring for their immediate physical needs and making them comfortable. Tremendous progress has been made since then. Today TLM can provide a completely effective cure and continues to support patients, their families and communities long after their treatment has ended.

In October, Derek Hartley the Area Co-ordinator for TLM in the North West invited me to a small gathering of local representatives, at Marple Methodist Church. My daughter Victoria came with me and we participated in a friendly and informative meeting. We heard about the Kumi Hospital in Uganda, which is run by Dr Opolot, patients are treated from all over the Kumi region, On the same site as the hospital is a chapel, where a half hour service is held each day for patients and staff. The Kumi Hospital also supports the local community by providing a school which can educate 140 pupils.

We also heard how leprosy can damage nerves in feet, and because of the lack of feeling, infected cuts can lead to ulcers and disability. Moses, a former leprosy patient, now makes sandals from special microcellular rubber, these are customised to fit the patient's feet.

Stigma associated with having leprosy is as destructive and isolating as the physical effect of the disease. When Sarah was diagnosed with leprosy her husband deserted her. She was treated with multi-drug therapy and cured. She was helped by TLM to get an ox and plough and then she was able to earn a living. Her husband returned. Sarah is the face on the World Leprosy Day prayer card for 2008.

Derek Hartley will be our preacher on Sunday 20 January at the 10.15 service. There will be a retiring collection.

Thank you to everyone who supports the important work of TLM by having a collecting box or saving stamps.

Wendy Jackson