STIGMA and misinformation surrounding leprosy often lead to the abandonment and ostracization of individuals who have battled this ancient disease. Despite having a cure, the lingering societal bias against people with leprosy often forces them into homelessness and begging. In this dire scenario, the leprosy NGO Raphael Ryder Cheshire International Centre emerges as a light in the dark for the marginalized.
The leprosy NGO’s home for people with leprosy is called Shiv Sadan and has been a sanctuary for hundreds of homeless leprosy patients for over six decades. But now, it is facing a critical problem. With the leprosy NGO’s facility deteriorating, 25 elderly residents find themselves on the brink of homelessness. This blog explores the challenges faced by people with leprosy, the invaluable role played by the leprosy NGO and the urgent fundraiser initiated by Raphael Ryder Cheshire International Centre to rescue 25 elderly leprosy patients from homelessness.
The plight of leprosy survivors
Stigma and violence are unfortunate companions for many leprosy patients, rooted in misconceptions surrounding the disease. There is a cure for leprosy. But people with the disease, or even people who have had the disease at some point, are often denied job opportunities and even basic human interactions. Priyo Lall, the CEO of the leprosy NGO Raphael Ryder Cheshire International Centre, sheds light on the harsh reality faced by these survivors, stating “even though they are completely cured of leprosy, people are unwilling to give them a job. Many wish to work as domestic help, but people do not allow them to even enter their homes.” The result is a desperate situation where leprosy survivors with no means of livelihood are pushed into begging for survival, explains the leprosy NGO.
The struggle for acceptance
People with leprosy are not only confronted with economic hardships but also endure emotional and social isolation. Families disown them and even their own children refuse to let them enter their homes, perpetuating a cycle of abandonment. Priyo Lall of the leprosy NGO emphasizes, “their own children don’t want their parents to come to their house and this completely shatters them; they are completely ostracized. For decades they have been suffering the stigma of being a leprosy patient and discrimination from society.” The leprosy NGO goes on to explain that this relentless societal discrimination compels many leprosy survivors to live a life of destitution, with begging as their only recourse. To support Raphael Ryder Cheshire International, you can donate here.
Shiv Sadan: a sanctuary of hope
In the midst of this grim reality, Shiv Sadan, operated by the leprosy NGO Raphael Ryder Cheshire International Centre, stands as a testament to compassion and humanity. Priyo Lall acknowledges the pivotal role played by Shiv Sadan in rescuing over 200 leprosy patients from the streets, providing not only shelter but also addressing their holistic needs. “Raphael has taken up full responsibility for their health and well-being, whether it be their food, shelter, or medical needs,” she says. The compassionate leprosy NGO’s commitment extends beyond mere physical care; it encompasses the psychological and emotional well-being of the residents.
The deteriorating infrastructure of Shiv Sadan
Despite its noble mission, this leprosy NGO is facing a crisis of its own. The homes constructed over 50 years ago are deteriorating rapidly, putting the lives of 25 elderly leprosy patients in imminent jeopardy. The dire condition of the leprosy NGO’s facilities is evident as Lall describes the makeshift measures they have had to resort to: “We are having to tie plastic sheets above beds to protect patients from the dripping ceiling during the monsoon rains.” Urgent intervention is necessary to prevent these patients from becoming homeless once again.
Fundraiser for the elderly leprosy patients
Recognizing the urgency of the situation, Raphael Ryder Cheshire International Centre has initiated a fundraiser to secure the future of the 25 elderly leprosy patients at Shiv Sadan. Priyo Lall of the leprosy NGO passionately appeals for support, stating, “If we don’t get the support, these people will have nowhere else to go. We need urgent help to save these elderly leprosy patients from going homeless.” The fundraiser of the leprosy NGO aims to not only address the immediate shelter crisis but also to revitalize and upgrade the infrastructure of Shiv Sadan to ensure a sustainable and dignified living environment for its residents.
Badal’s story: a glimpse into a harsh reality
To underscore the urgency and significance of the fundraiser, here is a poignant testimony from a beneficiary of Raphael Ryder Cheshire International Centre’s support. Badal, a former leprosy patient, narrates the heartbreaking story of being chased out of his village after being diagnosed with leprosy. His family, left with no shelter and shunned by society, found solace in the refuge offered by the leprosy NGO Raphael Ryder Cheshire International. Such personal narratives serve as powerful reminders of the transformative impact NGOs can have on the lives of those marginalized by societal prejudices.
Support this noble leprosy NGO on Give.do
Raphael Ryder Cheshire International Centre’s commitment to alleviating the suffering of homeless leprosy patients through Shiv Sadan is a source of hope in a world plagued by stigma and discrimination of people with leprosy. The urgent need of this leprosy NGO to address the crumbling infrastructure and impending homelessness of 25 elderly residents underscores the critical importance of the ongoing fundraiser.
As the leprosy NGO strives to provide not only shelter but dignity and acceptance to leprosy survivors, it calls upon people like you and me to contribute generously and join hands in preserving the sanctity of human life. In doing so, we collectively affirm our commitment to a more inclusive and compassionate world, where every individual, regardless of their health history, is given the opportunity to live with dignity and purpose. To support Raphael Ryder Cheshire International, you can donate here.
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