I never imagined that a disease could take away everything I held dear-my health, my confidence, and even my family. When I was diagnosed with leprosy, I didn’t just struggle with the wounds and ulcers that came with it, but also with the stigma and rejection. The hardest moment of my life was when my wife left me. She, like many others, believed that leprosy was a curse, something to fear. I was left alone, battling both the disease and heartbreak.
With the support of the ALERT team, I received timely medical treatment and proper care, which helped me recover. But even as my body healed, my heart remained wounded. I wished my wife could understand that leprosy was curable and that I was still the same person. The organization didn’t just treat me-they also worked on educating my family. Through counseling sessions, my wife slowly began to understand the truth about leprosy.
One day, she returned. She held my hand, looked at me with tears in her eyes, and apologized. It was the first time in a long while that I felt truly seen-not as a patient, but as a person. Today, she supports me, helping me take care of my wounds and ensuring that I continue my treatment and rehabilitation.
My journey has taught me that leprosy does not just affect the body, it affects relationships, self-worth, and the way society sees us. But with awareness and education, the barriers of stigma can be broken. My story is proof that love and understanding can heal even the deepest wounds, not just in our bodies, but in our hearts as well.
Yograj’s story is a powerful example of how awareness and education can break the barriers of stigma. His journey from abandonment to acceptance proves that with the right information and support, families can heal together and move forward with dignity and strength. His resilience continues to inspire others facing similar challenges, showing that leprosy is not the end of the road but a challenge that can be overcome with courage and understanding.
