A humanitarian initiative dedicated to healing, rehabilitation, and social reintegration of leprosy patients and other vulnerable individuals.
The Mother Teresa’s Leprosy Rehabilitation Centre houses a 100-bed hospital for both male and female leprosy patients. The centre includes a dedicated leprosy rehabilitation unit, a resident cobbler for vocational support, and a Shishu Bhawan for malnourished children.
Due to the stigma associated with leprosy, many families abandon their disfigured, blind, or severely ill children and adult members either on the streets or at the doorstep of the centre. These individuals are provided shelter, food, medical care, and dignity.
In addition to leprosy patients, many unwanted children and adults suffering from disabilities and non-leprosy-related diseases are also left at the centre. Missionary nuns bring them in and ensure they receive a safe place to live, nutritious food, education, and continuous medical attention.
Dr. Vivek Kumar personally treats these patients for leprosy and other skin diseases. Patients are also provided vocational training through the Rehabilitation Centre, enabling them to earn a livelihood and reintegrate into society with self-respect.
Since the year 2000, Dr. Kumar has organized two Mega Camps every year at the Mother Teresa’s Leprosy Centre. These camps focus on early detection and treatment of leprosy, along with free treatment for all other skin diseases.
The response to these camps is overwhelming. Patients travel hundreds of miles and often begin lining up as early as 4:00 AM for a 9:00 AM start. This reflects the trust and hope these camps inspire among the underprivileged.
Organizing a Mega Camp of this scale requires extensive preparation. Thousands of leaflets are distributed weeks in advance, posters are displayed across towns and pharmacies, and loudspeakers are installed at strategic locations to guide and inform patients and their families.
Dr. Kumar, his medical staff, and pharmaceutical representatives actively educate patients about leprosy, explaining that it is a bacterial disease and is completely curable if detected early. This ongoing education empowers patients to become ambassadors against stigma within their communities.
Pharmaceutical representatives play a vital role in the success of these Mega Camps. Around 8 to 10 representatives from different companies participate in each camp on a rotational basis. Most companies willingly donate large quantities of medicines, knowing they are used transparently for a genuine social cause.
Working closely with Dr. Kumar provides representatives hands-on medical exposure, enhancing their understanding of skin diseases. This collaboration enables the treatment of the maximum number of patients in the shortest time.
Each Mega Camp is inaugurated by distinguished VIPs including Members of Parliament, High Court Justices, CEOs of pharmaceutical companies, heads of medical institutions, and political leaders. Their involvement helps spread awareness nationwide and inspires others to engage in humanitarian service.