The role of our "leprosy champions" like Maria is invaluable in the eradication of leprosy! Maria is a member of the Mozambique Leprosy Commission and President of ALEMO (Association of recovered leprosy patients). At the time, she first went to a traditional healer with her complaints, and only when he could not help her did she turn to the health authorities. He was treated with medication. After his recovery, he joined a self-help group and is also a member of an 'outreach' group. These volunteers seek out new patients and persuade them to seek treatment. Maria says: "The people I helped were all leprosy patients. So you could say I saved these people!" - That's exactly right! Many more excellent rescuers like her are needed!

The story of Armando
Armando from Mozambique is 59 years old. He lost his wife and three children to an epidemic in 2010. He was devastated by his grief and fell into a deep depression.