On 18th July, I’m taking on the challenge of climbing the 619 steps of Skellig Michael (island off the coast of Co Kerry) to raise funds for The Leprosy Mission to find and cure 100 people affected by leprosy.

Every year, around 200,000 people are diagnosed with leprosy worldwide. That means one person every two minutes is hearing those devastating words, “You have leprosy.”

It costs just £24 to diagnose and treat one person, meaning every donation, no matter how small, can truly transform a life.

I’m inspired by Elisa*, the little girl in the picture. Elisa is from Mozambique and her story is a powerful reminder of why this matters.

Her family was forced to flee their home due to violent conflict. Elisa's Mum recalls, "We fled with only the clothes we were wearing. We lost everything. But we thank God we escaped with our lives.” Discoloured patches had been developing across Elisa’s skin for nearly 3 years, but she hadn't been given an accurate diagnosis and her condition was getting worse. When Elisa's family finally reached safety, they met a community volunteer who was trained to recognise the signs of leprosy. They immediately recognised that Elisa had leprosy and urged her family to seek help. Elisa was diagnosed and began the antibiotic treatment for leprosy. Today, she is on the path to a full recovery.

Elisa was only 5 when she was diagnosed with leprosy. Thankfully, she received treatment in time before she developed any of the lifelong disabilities that leprosy can cause. She hasn't had to experience the stigma and exclusion that so many others face. She has hope for a future free from both disease and discrimination.

The deep love and compassion of Jesus for both children and for persons with leprosy who were suffering and excluded from society, moves my heart. He valued them and gave them hope for the future. That inspires me to play a small part in ensuring children and adults today affected by leprosy are not held back by a disease that is entirely curable.

By supporting me in this challenge, you’re not just helping to cure a disease, you are helping to:

* Detect cases earlier

* Prevent disability

* Break down stigma and exclusion

* Restore dignity, hope, and belonging

Together, we can stop leprosy in its tracks and give children the chance to grow, thrive, continue with their education and look to the future with hope.

Thank you so much for your support.

* Elisa’s name has been changed to protect her identity