The Leprosy Mission's response to Cyclone Nargis in Myanmar (Burma)
On Saturday 3 May a cyclone struck Myanmar, sweeping through the low-lying Irrawaddy delta region leaving a trail of destruction ? houses have been swept away, flooding has engulfed towns and power supplies have been crippled.
The extent of the disaster is not yet fully known; the 45-year-long military government is reluctant to allow foreigners inside the country?s borders. The Leprosy Mission is one of a small group of international NGOs that has an in-country presence which means the response to relief efforts is directly benefitting those affected.
There is high-risk of disease as people are living amongst thousands of corpses and they are becoming desperate for food, water and shelter as the struggle over getting adequate aid into the country continues.
In the aftermath of a natural disaster, it is the poor who are the worst affected. Lack of infrastructure and strong buildings leave them exposed and vulnerable. For the poor who are also affected by leprosy, the impact can hit even harder. Fear of the disease means they are often prevented from participating in general emergency relief. Those with physical and sensory impairments are often unaware of the relief and rehabilitation services available and are unable to access them.
The Leprosy Mission has several projects in Myanmar, including the Mawlamyine Christian Leprosy Hospital in Mon State, which has approximately 100 beds for the treatment of leprosy-affected people. Whilst this has not been directly affected some facilities for disabled people, including residential and training centres for adults and children, have been damaged in the storms leaving vulnerable people at risk.
The Leprosy Mission intends to use its experience in leprosy and disability work to rebuild the lives of over 1,500 people with disabilities who have been severely affected by the cyclone. We are working with the Myanmar Department of Social Affairs to implement a livelihood rehabilitation programme in the north of the affected area. The project will restore damaged facilities and people?s houses and also repair or replace disability aids.
The Burmese people, families and communities need our help and prayers. In order to expand the work and provide continuing assistance more money is needed to fund the project. Donate now to the relief efforts in Myanmar, or phone 0900 900 44 to make an instant $25 donation.
|
|
