INTOUCH
Autumn 2025
Stories of lives transformed
Welcome
I’m delighted to welcome you to the first edition of inTouch for 2025.
As we journey through the year, I pray that you and your family will know God’s presence and provision in every area of your life.
in January, eight incredible New Zealand students travelled with me to witness leprosy work in Nepal as our 2025 Youth Advocates.
This was a bittersweet experience for me. It was a blessing for our Youth Advocates to see firsthand the diversity of leprosyrelated treatment at the Leprosy Mission’s Anandaban Hospital and the wrap-around care in the community. But, my heart was breaking to see the devastation from last September’s landslides within and around many of the hospital buildings rendering them obsolete.
With your support, the Nepal Team were able to rescue people trapped in buildings, restore power and water supply to the hospital, and transfer patients to the most robust stable buildings. There is an ongoing programme of work to stabilise the hospital campus, and ensure minimal disruption to the provision of hospital and laboratory services while keeping everyone safe.
Back in New Zealand, the Youth Advocates will be raising funds for a much needed minibus that will travel to the far reaches of Nepal bringing essential services to communities affected by leprosy.
We give thanks and praise that even in challenging times, people affected by leprosy can rely on the love of New Zealanders and caring Leprosy Mission teams across all the countries we work as together we strive to bring an end to the impact of this disease.
“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10
God Bless,
Gillian
Whitley
Executive Director
P.S. Attached to this magazine is our annual supporter survey.
As part of the Leprosy Mission family, your feedback is important to us as we work together to achieve a world without leprosy. I hope you can take a moment to fill it out.
God bless,
Alternatively, you can use your smartphone to scan this QR below to complete the survey or visit leprosymission.org.nz/ SupporterSurvey2025
Gillian Whitley Executive Director
Gillian and 2025 Youth Advocates at Anandaban Hospital.
Kamal’s Cure One Journey
Cured by you!
Last year, we introduced you to 8-year-old Kamal from rural Nepal, whose life had been severely affected by the devastating effects of leprosy. Today, we are thrilled to share how your generosity and God’s grace have brought healing and hope to his life.
When we first met Kamal, his face was hidden behind painful patches and lumps, and his eyes were swollen shut. His airways were so inflamed that he could barely breathe through his nose. Leprosy had taken a heavy toll on this young boy, leaving him covered from head to toe in the unmistakable signs of the disease.
In Kamal’s rural village, his parents were told that his condition was the result of a curse, inflicted by a snake god. They didn’t know that Kamal was suffering from a treatable disease—until they made a brave and difficult 5-hour journey to the Leprosy Mission’s Anandaban Hospital.
There, Kamal and his family learned the truth: Kamal’s illness was not a curse but leprosy, and with the right treatment, he could be cured. Thanks to supporters like you, Kamal received the essential multi-drug therapy that began his journey toward healing.
Now, as Kamal nears the end of his 12-month treatment, he is on the verge of being completely cured of leprosy, and the pain that once seemed endless is finally beginning to fade.
Cared for by you!
Upon Kamal’s arrival at Anandaban Hospital, doctors discovered that Kamal was also suffering from leprosy reaction, and his body was carrying one of the highest bacterial loads the doctors had ever encountered.
The medical team immediately began a rigorous treatment plan to address his reaction, while
also providing vital care to improve his critically low nutrition.
Kamal’s recovery was no small feat, but thanks to you, Kamal received the opportunity to heal and recover.
His Smile Says It All
After months of treatment, Kamal could finally return home to his family. His little sister, who had missed his bright smile, was overjoyed to see her brother once again.
When Kamal first arrived at Anandaban, his face was swollen, and he struggled for every breath. The physical toll of leprosy weighed down his spirit, and he had lost hope. But now, thanks to your kindness, his smile has returned, and his joy is unmistakable.
Kamal’s journey is not just about physical healing; it’s about emotional restoration too.
Ruth, the hospital’s counsellor, has been working with Kamal and his family throughout his treatment, providing them with the emotional support they so desperately needed. Ruth continues to visit Kamal regularly to help him heal emotionally and make sure he knows that he isn’t alone in his struggles.
Bringing Hope to the Community
While Ruth was visiting Kamal, she also took the opportunity to speak with others in the village about leprosy. Many of them had feared Kamal, worried that his disease might spread to them and their families.
However, Ruth was able to reassure them that leprosy is not easily transmitted once treatment begins, helping to dispel the myths and fears surrounding the disease.
Kamal’s journey from isolation and fear to recovery and acceptance is a testament to the power of care, and support from Cure One supporters like you.
Thank you for being part of Kamal’s story. Over the coming months, we will continue to share his progress with you.
Together, and with God’s grace, we will continue to bring hope and healing to many more people affected by leprosy.
What a wonderful way to achieve a world without leprosy. One person at a time.
If you would like to become a Cure One supporter, please visit www.cureone.org.nz or contact Diane: phone 0800 862 873 or email cureone@leprosymission.org.nz
YOUTH ADVOCATES 2025
Engaging young people in the mission is a responsibility we embrace with great joy and enthusiasm.
This year, we had the privilege of sending eight dedicated Youth Advocates on an unforgettable journey to Nepal, led by Gillian, LMNZ Executive Director.
They had the opportunity to witness firsthand the life-changing work taking place at the Leprosy Mission Anandaban Hospital and in the surrounding communities, and to better understand the challenges faced by those affected by leprosy.
The mission of the Youth Advocates, upon their return to New Zealand, is to share a special project they are committed to supporting with their churches, friends and families.
Some of the Youth Advocates share their thoughts and experiences with you:
Caleb Corban
“I don’t think I’ve ever been sad to leave a hospital before, but Anandaban Hospital is different. The Christian faith foundation that shapes the hospital’s culture is central to what makes it so special. The morning devotions, the leadership, and the weekly Tuesday afternoon devotionals in the hospital ward create a unique and supportive environment. I was also deeply moved by the immense joy expressed by the patients, despite their challenges.”
Their goal this year is to raise funds for a muchneeded new vehicle for Anandaban Hospital. This vehicle will be essential in transporting staff, medical supplies, and equipment between the hospital and satellite clinics in remote areas. In places where infrastructure is limited, this vehicle will bridge the gap, ensuring that essential healthcare services reach those who need them most.
We will keep you updated with their fundraising efforts in this coming year.
If you like to support the Youth Advocates, please visit: bit.ly/YAS25-fundraising or scan QR code here
Sylvia McDougall
As a medical student, it was very eyeopening for me to be able to observe the holistic work that goes into treating such a complex disease. We had the privilege of watching a reconstructive surgery in the operating theatre, which will help restore movement to leprosy-affected hands. It was both inspiring and humbling to talk to the medical team, like Dr. Indra and the counsellor Ruth, who serve with such dedication, knowledge, and compassion.”
Heidi Caughley
“When Shovakhar, the Leprosy Mission Nepal Country Leader, explained how the minibus is needed to take healthcare to the patients, it truly hit home for me. It made me realise just how lucky we are to live in an accessible country. It inspired me to fundraise for this cause, so we can help provide everyone, specially those in remote communities, access to the healthcare they deserve, without distance being an obstacle.”
The eight 2025 Youth Advocates (from left: Jack Austin, Sylvia McDougall, Heidi Caughley, Naomi Riedel, Sydney Habets, Violet Harris, Sophia Niblock and Caleb Corban) meeting Redhe, a leprosy patient, at Anandaban Hospital and hearing his story.
Nepal Landslide Update
Rebuilding with Faith and Gratitude
In September of last year, the Leprosy Mission Anandaban Hospital in Nepal was struck by devastating landslides caused by intense rainfall and a sudden cloudburst. The steep terrain of the hospital grounds was severely affected, leading to significant damage to several buildings.
Amid the physical destruction, we also experienced the heartbreaking loss of a beloved member of our Nepal team—a dedicated Lab Technician who tragically lost his life in the landslides.
We want to extend our heartfelt gratitude for your unwavering prayers and support during this incredibly challenging time. In the face of such devastation, we have seen God’s mercy and grace, which have given us the strength to move forward.
By God’s grace, we were spared from even greater loss. Despite the severe damage to our 8
leprosy wards, not a single patient was lost or injured. We are profoundly thankful for His protection over our patients, staff, and the hospital.
Immediate Response and Restoration
Thanks to your incredible generosity, we were able to respond swiftly and begin the restoration process. With your continued prayer and financial support, we addressed the most urgent needs and resumed essential services.
Here’s an update on the progress we’ve made:
Leprosy Ward
Although the leprosy ward suffered significant damage, we successfully relocated patients to the new trauma center building and emergency department, ensuring they continued to receive the vital care they needed while remaining safe.
Retaining Walls
To secure the hospital buildings, we have begun constructing retaining walls around the campus. These are essential for the safety of the hospital structures, allowing our medical team to continue providing critical care to patients.
Orthosis and Prosthesis Department
The roof of the Orthosis and Prosthesis Department was damaged, but we made repairs immediately. By God’s grace, essential work resumed once the retaining walls were completed.
Self-Care Unit
Though the Self-Care Unit store was completely destroyed, we adapted quickly. Self-care teaching resumed and was integrated with inpatient leprosy services, ensuring continued support for our patients’ well-being.
Training Centre
Training sessions were relocated to alternative safe spaces, allowing education on leprosy care to continue without interruption.
By God’s grace, we were able to resume emergency services, inpatient leprosy care, and surgeries shortly after the disaster. While we are currently operating with reduced bed capacity, we are working toward expanding to 102 beds to maximise available space.
Moving Forward
We remain committed to rebuilding and strengthening our hospital, trusting in the resources and strength God provides each day. While the rebuilding process is well underway, significant challenges remain.
The Leprosy Mission Anandaban Hospital’s location in a high-risk area adds complexity to our efforts. We are exploring all options, including the potential relocation of some services, to ensure the hospital remains a safe and effective place for healing and care for the people of Nepal.
Your generosity, prayers, and love have been a lifeline during this challenging time. We cannot thank you enough for standing with us.
Please continue to pray for our staff, for wisdom in decision-making, and for the success of our rebuilding efforts. Together, with God’s guidance and your support, we will restore the hospital to its full capacity, continuing to serve those in need with excellence and compassion.
Blossoming in Bougainville
We first shared Marianne’s story on World Leprosy Day 2023, she was frail, bedridden, and in constant pain from leprosy.
Abandoned by her husband, rejected by her community, and separated from her children, Marianne was in a desperate situation. Her youngest child, just 18 months old, had been taken from her, and she hadn’t seen her since, leaving her heartbroken and isolated.
When Jasleen, LMNZ’s International Programmes Manager, visited Bougainville in 2023, she was struck by Marianne’s story of pain and despair. But during a recent visit, the transformation was nothing short of miraculous.
Marianne, once frail and weak, stood tall and strong, with her health fully restored. Her spirit, once crushed, was now full of hope and resilience. Jasleen could hardly recognise her.
Jasleen also had the privilege of introducing Marianne to Gillian Whitley, our Executive Director, both of whom were moved by the incredible change they saw in her.
“I could hardly believe it was the same young woman we met in 2023,” Jasleen said. “Marianne is no longer just a survivor; she’s become a beacon of hope and strength, not only for herself but for others as well.”
While the physical healing was remarkable, Marianne’s emotional journey remains ongoing. She is still deeply affected by the loss of her youngest child, whom she hasn’t seen since they were taken away… but has been joyfully reunited with three of her other children.
Testament to the power of support, faith, and resilience
Through the care she received from the Leprosy Mission’s team, Marianne has regained her health, confidence, with a new sense of hope. She is no longer the fragile woman she once was, but a strong, determined advocate for others in need.
A heartfelt thank you goes out to all supporters like you, who prayed for Marianne, sent messages of encouragement, and offered their unwavering support.
As Proverbs 31:9 reminds us: “Defend the rights of the poor and needy.”
Thank you for living out this powerful message and being a source of hope and strength for Marianne.
Through the Bougainville Healthy Communities Programme, Village Health Promoters are receiving training to find hidden leprosy cases like Marianne’s; communities are able to learn the causes and consequences of leprosy. There are far fewer people now who believe leprosy is a curse. They are seeing that it is a curable disease. Village Health Promoters are also helping to improve diet and hygiene within the communities.
God bless you for standing alongside Marianne on her journey of healing, and for making a positive impact on her life and the lives of others like her in Bougainville.
Gillian, LMNZ Executive Director, met with Marianne on her recent trip to Bougainville.
Nila’s Triumph Over Leprosy
A New Beginning for Her and Her Community
In Timor Leste, there is a beautiful 13-year-old girl named Nila who has been given a new lease on life since being cured of leprosy.
You may remember Nila from a story we shared with you in March last year. When strange markings appeared on Nila’s face, her family feared the worst.
Fortunately, the Leprosy Mission team had just arrived in her community. Dr. Cela recognised the signs and confirmed that Nila had leprosy.
In that moment, Nila saw a future filled with deformity and disability, a fate that many people on her island had suffered.
“I felt ashamed to show myself,” she cried. “I could not go to school.”
Thanks to your support, Dr. Cela started Nila on Multi-Drug Therapy (MDT). Within 48 hours, Nila was no longer contagious, and within the year, she was completely cured.
Without intervention, Nila would never have been able to escape the trauma of leprosy’s long history in Timor-Leste.
Nila’s story highlights the vulnerability of children in Timor-Leste, and we cannot let leprosy return. We must protect them.
From Darkness to Light
Nila’s journey was filled with shame and sorrow. “My mind was blocked,” she recalls. “I lost my thoughts. I felt very sad and ashamed.” For a time, she didn’t want to leave the house.
“I thought no one would want to be my friend,” Nila shared. “I just wanted to hide.”
But thanks to your support, Nila received not only the medical care she needed but also encouragement and prayers that helped lift her spirit. Messages from New Zealand reminded her that she was loved and valued.
A Thankful Heart
Her mother, Tatum, says, “I prayed every day for my daughter. I cannot express how thankful I am to the people in New Zealand for helping her. You’ve given her life back to her.”
Nila’s healing is a testimony to the power of kindness and faith. God has restored her health, and through your generosity, her hope for the future has been renewed.
A Future of Hope
Nila’s healing is not just a personal victory; it’s a beacon of hope for her community.
Through the PHACE (Preventative Health And Community Empowerment) programme we can protect children like Nila from leprosy.
Your ongoing support means more people like Nila will receive the treatment, care, and love they need. Thank you for standing with us in this mission of healing and hope.
Together, we are bringing light into the darkness and protecting the future of children in Timor Leste.
Thank you New Zealand supporters for sending through your heartfelt messages to children like Nila in Timor Leste. We were able to share them with Nila on our recent visit to Timor Leste.
Your Really Good Gifts Impact
Thanks to your generous support of the Christmas Really Good Gifts appeal in 2024, we were able to raise significant funds to provide life-changing gifts that have made a profound impact.
Your kindness enabled us to offer essential medication to those affected by leprosy, helping them heal and preventing further damage. Many received special sandals to protect their wounds and prevent future harm to their feet. They were also given essential gifts such as vegetable seed hampers and tradespeople toolkits, empowering them to rebuild their lives and provide for their
“...To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” Micah 6:8
Prayer is central to what we do and so we are bringing our staff, people affected by leprosy, supporters and volunteers to unite in prayer for a world without leprosy.
All 27 countries within the Global Fellowship of the Leprosy Mission are setting aside 7 May 2025 in prayer. There will be global prayer sessions for supporters like you to join with others around the world through Zoom (the link will be available on our website).
Each year, we choose a group of enthusiastic young people (18-25 years old) to become advocates for the vital work we do with people affected by leprosy and their families.
This is a life-changing experience that will shift their perspective on what is truly important, whilst they make some amazing friends along the way.
If you know of any suitable young people in your family or church, please encourage them to apply!
A mission trip to Nepal in mid January 2026 – will you join us? Scan this to hear some powerful reflection from our past Youth Advocates, or visit our website at leprosymission.org.nz/YAS-2026
Your love and compassion are truly a lifeline to Soniya and others like her, thank you for bringing hope and light to those affected by leprosy! Please contact Nadia if you want to know more about the Global Day of Prayer at 022 199 5758 or email Nadia.Paul@leprosymission.org.nz
Just in case you don’t live forever
During your lifetime, the number of people affected by leprosy has fallen tremendously. Yet many remain. God cares for them deeply and we know you do too.
Use your Will to make sure there will be hope, light and life for those still affected by leprosy after your lifetime.
Your bequest costs nothing now, but in the future will have great power to transform the lives of the most wounded, rejected and poverty-stricken.
While you can’t take it with you, you can decide how it stays behind.
For more information about leaving a Bequest in your Will, please call Nadia on 022 199 5758 or email: Nadia.Paul@leprosymission.org.nz Your legacy can be a world where everyone is cured, healed and included.
