“Every minute, someone, somewhere is diagnosed with leprosy! 99% of these people live in poverty stricken communities.” The Leprosy Mission

This Christmas, the hairyLemon team willingly gave up their Christmas gift baskets for the chance to help The Leprosy Mission spread some goodwill to communities in areas affected by leprosy and poverty. Using the money that would usually be spent on yummy Christmas goodies for all the staff, hairyLemon decided to contribute towards eye surgery for two people, a water pump, one year’s school fees for 3 socially excluded children and three disadvantaged girls, and a pair of sandals for a person with leprosy. “It is a great cause, and we are privileged to be able to contribute as a team,” says hairyLemon director, Graham Dockrill.

Leprosy is a disease caused by bacteria which attacks the nerves in the hands, feet and face causing numbness. When people lose feeling they can easily hurt themselves during normal day-to-day activities like cooking over a fire or walking bare foot resulting in bodily disfigurement, deformities and sometimes death. Sadly, people who have leprosy often face social rejection and are often disowned by their families and friends.

The Leprosy Mission is based in 53 countries around the world and exists to help not only people with leprosy but also the communities in which they live. Through the Good Gifts campaign, the Leprosy Mission gives New Zealanders the chance to give a gift with meaning to a needy community overseas. Find out more online at www.leprosymission.org.nz