Testimony of a leprosis patient
(taken from "Making a difference", a 41 minute video describing Calcutta Rescue's work)

Even though I developped some sores, I didn't bother them. If I handled anything I would get sores or my skin would come off. I didn't tell anyone of my illness at my own home. I was living at my in-laws' then and didn't want to alarm anyone, so I left home. I came to Calcutta and wandered around and lived on the footpath. I'm not used to begging, there was nowhere for me to live. The police would harass me everytime medication there was any trouble. Someone told me that if I was able I should go to Cossipore (clinic) to have my illness seen to. The doctor wrote me a letter and said that I had leprosy and sent me for tests. I went to the hospital and the next day I returned and started to receive treatments and at the clinic. I tried to go back to work. This was not possible, people were disgusted with me. How can I expect someone to employ me if my own family feared me ?"

After treatment, this man was given a sawing machine so he could start his own business. Calcutta Rescue employed him to make clothes for other leprosis patients. It was a new start in his life as he became self sufficient and was able to somehow help other patients.

It was the wish of Dr. Jack Preger that established Calcutta Rescue that help is available to those that need it, a wish that the ignored are not forgotten.

We rely on your help, encouragement and support.
As long as it continues, we can continue to move towards a brighter and more equitable future.