Last year marked 150 years of The Leprosy Mission offering hope and healing around the world.
Leprosy Mission Australia is proud and excited to bring you this beautiful hard-cover book to be both read and displayed in your home, church, to friends and family.
The paisley motif, a swirling teardrop shape, symbolizes life, fertility and love in many cultures, especially in India, where it appears in textiles, jewellery and decorative arts. Both the paisley motif and The Leprosy Mission represent transformation, as paisleys signify cycles of life and rebirth, and TLP helps individuals rebuild lives impacted by leprosy. With its intricate, handcrafted designs, the paisley mirrors TLM’s compassionate approach to holistic care.
You have played an important part in this 150 year history. You have actively supported The Leprosy Mission’s commitment to fighting stigma, transforming lives and offering compassion and resilience to those affected by leprosy.
This special anniversary book brings together rare photographs, personal stories, letters, and historical artefacts, including reflections from founder Wellesley C. Bailey and early news reports capturing the growing hope for treatment and healing.
Many Australian Christians grew up hearing about the work of Dr Paul and Dr Margaret Brand. Dr Paul, a pioneering orthopedic surgeon and his wife, Dr Margaret, an ophthalmologist, who disrupted the knowledge about leprosy, dispelling misconceptions and advancing treatment approaches.
While the Brands are probably the most well-known Aussies, there are several others whose contributions in the field of leprosy research have also transformed lives.
For example, Ms Val Bock became involved with the work of Leprosy Mission Australia in 1961. Her first posting with Leprosy Mission Australia was in Papua New Guinea. In 1966, she moved to India, then to Thailand, where she worked for 13 years alongside Dr Trevor and Mrs Heather Smith. This wonderful woman spent many years providing medical care to former leprosy patients and also tried her hand at writing.
Dr Grace Warren, who trained as a gynaecologist/obstetrician at the University of Sydney, began her career with TLM Hong Kong. Dr Warren spent time working with Dr Brand in India, and developed new techniques for managing leprosy-related deformities. In 2005, Dr Warren was awarded the Star of Pakistan for Humanitarian Services in Pakistan, specifically for her work in leprosy medicine for over 37 years.
The history of leprosy care has been shaped not only by medical pioneers but also by global advocates such as Princess Diana, whose engagement brought unprecedented public attention to the dignity and rights of people affected by leprosy. Her visits to leprosy hospitals and communities helped dispel myths and confront stigma, strengthening the work undertaken by organisations and individuals featured in this anniversary book.
A meaningful addition to your collection, this limited-edition book is a testament to your role in a 150-year legacy of compassion.
Own a piece of this remarkable history—and be inspired by the stories that continue to shape the future.
This Special Edition Book is ON SALE now for 20% off! Hurry, sale ends this Monday, December 1!
For more stories like this, you can browse our full collection here!
