Written by: Peter Laubscher, Executive Director
Article source: JOY! Magazine
Leprosy, historically known as Hansen’s disease, stubbornly persists into the modern era, defying the common misconception that it’s a relic of the past. Annually, a quarter million people worldwide are diagnosed with this disease, which primarily damages the peripheral nerves and skin. The disease’s insidious nature lies in its ability to numb sensation, leaving sufferers vulnerable to injuries they cannot feel, leading to severe complications without timely intervention. Leprosy is caused by Mycobacterium leprae, a bacterium similar to the one that causes tuberculosis, and is transmitted through respiratory droplets, usually requiring prolonged close contact.
Leprosy in the Bible
Many people’s attitudes towards leprosy patients today are based on the references to leprosy in the Bible. But Biblical leprosy isn’t the same thing as modern-day leprosy. The Hebrew word, tzaraath or tsar’ath – which is translated as “leprosy” in the English Bible – doesn’t cover one single disease, like the leprosy that we talk about today. Tzaraath was translated as “leprosy” in the early versions of the English Bible because leprosy was a mysterious and misunderstood condition. The word was used to describe blemishes on the skin caused by a variety of diseases which could cause a person to be ceremonially unclean. Descriptions of tzaraath in the Bible never mention nerve damage. So, there’s no evidence that the diseases described as “leprosy” in the Bible are related to the disease known as leprosy today.
The role of the Leprosy Mission
Founded in 1874 by Wellesley Bailey, the Leprosy Mission was established with the goal to eradicate the impacts of leprosy. Today, the mission operates in 28 countries, including South Africa, continuing its founder’s vision by treating patients, halting the transmission, and reducing the stigma attached to the disease. The mission embodies Christian compassion, aiming to continue Christ’s healing works by providing free treatment, training healthcare workers, and supporting community education about leprosy.
What we do:
• We provide leprosy patients with free treatment.
• We show patients with nerve damage how to care for themselves to prevent injuries and disabilities.
• We train health workers to recognise the early signs of leprosy. Timely diagnosis and treatment reduce the risk of nerve damage and disability.
• We welcome invitations to speak at churches and other gatherings about what you can do to help those affected by leprosy.
A closer look at lives changed
Kevin’s story: overcoming neglect
Kevin’s story is heartbreakingly common among late-diagnosed leprosy patients. Living in proximity to the Kruger Park, Kevin suffered extensively from the disease’s progressive nerve damage, which led to significant disfigurement and disability. His injuries included severe burns from common activities, such as handling hot objects, which he could no longer feel. The Leprosy Mission intervened just as Kevin’s situation seemed most dire. Thanks to the dedicated efforts of workers like Gundula Koethnig, Kevin is now receiving necessary medical treatments to save his sight and undergo reconstructive surgeries. Efforts also extend to improving his living conditions, providing a testament to the comprehensive care the mission strives to provide.
Kevin’s hands have been badly damaged by repeated painless injuries.
Dumisani’s redemption: restoring family and faith
In another part of South Africa, Dumisani’s life unravelled due to the misdiagnosis of his leprosy. Misunderstood symptoms led to social isolation and the dissolution of his family, as his condition was mistaken for a curse. His physical appearance changed drastically, with swelling that made conventional clothing and shoes unbearable. The breakthrough came when a chance recommendation led him to a dermatologist familiar with the signs of leprosy. Quickly connected with the Leprosy Mission, Dumisani received the vital medications that halted the disease’s progression. Beyond physical healing, a worker of the mission, Goodman Qhosholo, is also helping Dumisani to reconcile with his estranged wife and children, aiming to heal emotional wounds and restore family bonds.
Our mission is to:
• Spot leprosy early
• Treat leprosy and cure people of the disease
• Stop the transmission of leprosy by making sure that all people who have the disease receive treatment – leprosy patients who have been treated cannot pass the disease to other people.
This article is featured in the May issue of JOY! Magazine. Read a digital version of this magazine here: joygifts.co.za
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Date published: 09/05/2025
Feature image: Image for illustrative purposes only. Artwork adapted from www.freepik.com
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