Sunday January 28th is World Leprosy Day. Around Australia, and the world, people like you are taking the opportunity to raise their voices on behalf of those affected by leprosy.

This year the theme is Beat Leprosy. It's not enough to stop the disease of leprosy alone. We need to end the stigma and discrimination faced by people affected by leprosy too. At The Leprosy Mission Australia, this is our fundamental strategy — Triple Zero. Zero Leprosy Transmission, Zero Leprosy Discrimination, and Zero Leprosy Disability. 

When we Beat Leprosy, it means addressing the medical needs, the social needs, and the psychological needs of those affected by leprosy. It's a call for a world where leprosy is no longer a source of stigma, but an opportunity to display kindness, love and compassion.

Rhitik (pictured) missed three years of school, because of the damage leprosy caused to his body. The ulcer on his foot meant he couldn't run around and play cricket or soccer with his friends. When they asked why he couldn't play, he could only say that he was injured. Sadly stories like this are too common. Nobody should have their life stolen away — that's why we need to Beat Leprosy.