[Ely Announce] Bishop's Lent Appeal to support people affected by leprosy

[Owen Spencer-Thomas]

Bishop's Lent Appeal to support people affected by leprosy                    

 

The Bishop of Ely, Dr Anthony Russell, will launch his Lent Appeal 2008 on Thursday 31 January to support the work of The Leprosy Mission,. The launch will take place at Orton Goldhay, Peterborough.

 

The Appeal will focus on the work of the Schieffelin Institute of Health in Karigiri, South India, because this hospital is located within Ely's link diocese of Vellore. Ever since its foundation in 1955 the hospital has been at the forefront of leprosy care. It was a pioneer of the Multi Drug Therapy which now transforms the lives of leprosy sufferers, and also of innovative surgery on tendon transfer to restore some use to damaged limbs.

 

Today this modern community hospital cares for the medical needs of a large and expanding population. It has over twenty five medical staff and specialists in dermatology, reconstructive surgery, ENT, ophthalmology, gynaecology, community health and pathology.  Physical and occupational therapists, social workers and counsellors combine their skills and experience to provide the best possible care.  No one with leprosy is ever turned away.  There is also a vibrant hospital church and committed chaplaincy team who provide vital spiritual care.

 

More than 1,400 people per day were diagnosed with leprosy in 2005.  This disease is acquired through airborne infection and has been curable for the last twenty years. Yet the stigma remains, and many of those who could be cured do not come forward for treatment for fear of shame and rejection.  Often treatment is started too late to prevent permanent damage to hands and feet. Leprosy is found today in areas of poverty in South America, Africa and Asia. 

 

"I am delighted that the Diocese is able to work with The Leprosy Mission in Lent 2008 to raise funds for Karigiri Hospital," said Dr Russell.  "This venture allows us to be involved with a charity based in our Diocese, and to encourage vital work close to our link Diocese in South India. Please support the Appeal generously."

                                    

£35 will pay a nurse's salary for one month

£35 will pay for sight saving eye surgery

£90 will pay for hand surgery and correct disability

£120 will pay for the medical care of one patient 

 

The launch will begin at 10.30 am with prayers at Orton Goldhay Church. The event will continue across the road for coffee at The Leprosy Mission HQ. Press representatives are invited to attend the Church.  Short interviews can be conducted and pictures taken over coffee.



 

For further details and information: 

Canon Owen Spencer-Thomas 
Bishops' Press Officer 
52 Windsor Road 
Cambridge 
CB4 3JN 

Mobile: 07801 492151 
E-mail: owenst at btinternet.com 

18 January 2008                                                                                                 Ref 0807