Theerthi grew up in a leprosy colony and was raised by “adoptive” parents (both leprosy survivors) who took her in as their own and loved her abundantly. Though their own needs are significant, they always put Theerthi’s needs first. They were determined to propel her into a kinder, brighter life than the ones they had been forced into as a result of the ancient stigma that surrounds leprosy. She started her journey towards that future at a young age when she was enrolled in Rising Star Outreach’s Peery Matriculation School as a kindergartener. 

Although it is obvious that life has been difficult for her, Shanti’s strong spirit shines through in her smile. And while she is now cured from leprosy, the disease left her with significant disabilities. Yet it is also obvious that she is more than just a leprosy patient or an amputee. She is confident and self-sufficient, happily cooking and selling food in her community.

Susila lives in the Bharatapuram leprosy colony with her husband. Her husband is a leprosy affected patient and because of his disabilities, she has been the sole provider for fifteen years.

Jennifer was just a toddler when she began to show the signs and symptoms of leprosy. Discarded and abandoned by her parents as a baby, she was rescued by her grandfather even though he was suffering severe effects from leprosy. He was determined that she have a better life, and so he entrusted Jennifer to our care.

When Padma and I approached the colony we saw this woman confidently stride by, followed by a gaggle of turkeys.  She looked like the Pied Piper of turkeys!  Padma called out to her, “Madam, what are you doing?”  She responded cheerily, “I’m walking my turkeys.  I walk them for 45 minutes every morning and every night.”  She confided, “They are like my children!”