KIT Blog

Virgilio was 12 years old when diagnosed with leprosy. Staff from The Leprosy Mission Timor- Leste did field testing and home screening and were able to recommend that Virgilio get treatment for his leprosy. Before this he had been scared and traumatised when his friends began to see changes in his hands and feet. They no longer wanted to be around him. Virgilio was a good student but stopped studying because of this discrimination.

Virgilio completed his treatment but decided not to return to his studies. Instead, he became involved in a Self-Help Group through the Community-Based Rehabilitation Social Economic and Health Development Project. (CBR-SEHD)

Virgilio joined the Self-Help Group to support his younger sister and brother. He wanted them to continue with their education. He obtained loans and through his business activity was able to support the family. Virgilio feels happy that he is alive and can do everything that he can to support his family.

Virgilio is now 23 years old and lives with his father, younger sister and brother. His dream is to one day be a motor repair technician. Virgilio’s last message to those who have leprosy is:

“Don’t be afraid and feel bad because leprosy can be treated and life goes to normal again.”

Pray for Virgilio and his family that they would continue to thrive in their work and education.

Praise God for the Community-Based Rehabilitation Social Economic and Health Development Project. Pray that people helped through the project will continue to increase their independence, live full lives and be full participants in their communities.

Praise God for the Australian Government Grant, so that together with every dollar Australian supporters donate, The Leprosy Mission in Timor Leste will be able to help more people.

If you feel moved to GIVE financially today, please contact FREECALL 1800 537 767, use the Reply Paid envelope enclosed, or go to:

https://www.leprosymission.org.au/projects/community-based-rehabilitation-social-economic-health-development-project 

With the support of the Australian Government

through the Australian NGO Cooperation Program

(ANCP) our projects able to help improve the wellbeing

of people affected by leprosy, other neglected

tropical diseases and disability in Timor-Leste.