Saira had leprosy for 10 years before The Leprosy Mission Bangladesh found her and offered help. Her story is a tragic reminder that stigma still delays leprosy diagnosis because of fear.  Then physical disability results, which is irreversible.  She explained,

I developed leprosy when I was about 15 years old. By the time I was diagnosed, and given multi-drug therapy treatment I had lost the use of all my fingers.  I couldn't use my right wrist.  I could hardly walk. I was homeless and had no money for food.  I was crying and asking myself what would happen to me?

Thanks to supporters like you, The Leprosy Mission Bangladesh was able to offer a range of life changing treatment and support to Saira. Staff supported her through a course of multi-drug therapy.  She had surgery on her fingers and wrist, and on her ankles to enable her to walk properly again. Through specialist counselling, she began to rebuild her confidence after years of isolation, and was able to reintegrate into her community because of The Leprosy Mission's community programmes working to change attitudes and discriminatory practices.   

Saira went on to meet Rabbani, who had also experienced leprosy and they have since married and had a daughter, Mahmuda.  Due to all of the essential Cure One components, Saira has gone through each of the challenging steps of the cure to transform her life.

"I can do many things now, like milking the cow and growing vegetables. I can even write my own name!  Rabbani and I are very proud of our beautiful daughter, who is happy at school. I feel well and happy. I am so very thankful."

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