KIT Blog

Aspiring aeronautical engineer struck down by leprosy

Meet Shuvam, a 14 year old boy who has suffered the effects of leprosy for four years. At age 10, a number of spots appeared on his hands, legs and back. He went to a skin doctor, but was given the wrong medicine and consequently, his condition deteriorated. However, after being alerted about the Anandaban Hospital by one of his friends, he received treatment and was soon cured. After finding out that he had been cured of the disease, Shuvam was overjoyed. He could see the spots disappearing from his skin and this confirmed that he was getting better. His parents were supportive through the entirety of his treatment and the family are incredibly thankful for the work of the The Leprosy Mission Australia.

The Leprosy Mission also left Shuvam with many great opportunities. He was given a scholarship to a prestigious school where he was able to learn English and had access to computers and science classes. He is very thankful for this opportunity as without it, he would be forced to attend a school where teachers often didn’t turn up.

Shuvam wishes to be an aeronautical engineer in the future. He would like to design planes and even become a pilot one day. With the help of The Leprosy Mission, Shuvam has been able to receive an education which will help him achieve his goals and set him up for future endeavours.

“I would like to thank you for giving me an opportunity to study in a good school. You have changed my life.”
—Shuvam


Shuvam would like to thank everyone at The Leprosy Mission Australia for giving him such a great opportunity to study at such a prestigious school. His life has changed forever.


Melbourne Grammar students looking at their writings at The Leprosy Mission Australia officeMelbourne Grammar students at The Leprosy Mission Australia office

This story was written by five students (left-to-right): Charlie, Harrington, Harry, Harry and Udom, from Melbourne Grammar School. They generously volunteered their time to help write this story this month and help label items in the shop.


The Leprosy Mission seeks to bring about transformation; breaking the chains of leprosy, empowering people to attain healing, dignity, and life in all its fullness.

We are targeting a Triple Zero Leprosy strategy — Zero Leprosy Transmission, Zero Leprosy Disability, and Zero Leprosy Discrimination. We are working hard with our international project partners, and international government organisations, to make leprosy transmission a thing of the past by 2035.

If you feel moved to make an impact today, click here and your gift will be graciously accepted and used where it is most needed.