In parts of southern India, people affected by leprosy still walk barefoot—unaware that each step could change their life forever.
When leprosy damages nerves, it steals the sense of feeling. Without pain to warn them, even the smallest cut can become a dangerous wound. Untreated injuries can lead to infection, disability, and years of lost livelihood and isolation.
This Christmas, The Leprosy Mission Australia invites you to share comfort and joy by helping protect vulnerable feet and restore dignity. Because what we wish for our own families at Christmas—peace, safety, hope—are the very things your support makes possible for people affected by leprosy.
A pair of protective sandals may seem simple. But when numb feet can no longer feel heat, stones or glass, those sandals become life-changing. They prevent infection. They preserve mobility. They protect independence and dignity.
Through our “Life and Limbs” workshop in India, people affected by leprosy craft specially designed footwear that shields feet from injury. This creates sustainable employment and empowers others living with the same condition. Each shoe is a symbol of protection, purpose and pride—made by hands that once bore the stigma of exclusion
Dhawni’s story: from barefoot to bold steps
Dhwani was only ten when leprosy began to steal the feeling in her feet. For years, she walked barefoot, unaware of the danger beneath her. Today, thanks to supporters like you, she walks freely, her steps filled with confidence and dignity.
“These shoes… they protect me,” she says. “Without them, I would not feel the injuries that could destroy my feet.”
It’s a powerful image—one that captures what your gift can do. It transforms fear into freedom, vulnerability into strength, despair into dignity.
By giving just $20, you can “actually” change someone’s life
This Christmas, your donation ensures that people affected by leprosy have the resources and support they need to protect their feet and their future.
$20 protects – providing a pair of protective sandals that shield numb feet from injury.
$50 heals – supplying wound care and training to help prevent infection.
$100 educates – supporting community health education so families can recognise and treat leprosy early.
Every gift—large or small—brings comfort and joy in the most practical, life-affirming way.
Beyond medicine, your kindness helps restore what leprosy tries to steal: the ability to walk without pain, to work with confidence, to live without fear. It reminds each person they are seen, valued and loved.
As we celebrate Christmas, we remember that the story of Jesus begins with compassion and light breaking into darkness. Your gift this season carries that same message—of hope arriving where it’s needed most.
You can help more people like Dhwani take their next steps with courage and confidence.
Give comfort and joy to people like Dhwani this Christmas below!
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