Peter Waddup CEO The Leprosy Mission

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I’m sure you will have been as sad as me to read about and see the distressing photos following the earthquake in Myanmar. There have also been aftershocks across the country, including a further earthquake with a magnitude of 5.1.

Life in Myanmar was already difficult because of the ongoing civil war, recent flooding and huge hikes in food and transportation costs. Now the high temperatures of around 40C are adding to the challenges of finding food and clean water. On top of this, the monsoons are expected to arrive in two weeks’ time.

Damage to infrastructure is slowing down rescue efforts. Communication is limited with only SMS occasionally possible. Electricity is not working in most areas.

We thank God that three of the Leprosy Mission team in Mandalay were able to evacuate the 8th floor office safely during the earthquake. We also give thanks that two further team members who were in the field were not hurt and were able to return to Mandalay despite badly damaged roads.

The building opposite the office has sunk into the ground and is unstable, which means the surrounding area is now unsafe. Sadly, staff members have lost their homes and face a time of uncertainty.

God has been so good to us, and the Taungoo workshop is also still standing, but will need some work to reinforce the building.

Finally, we are giving thanks for our wonderful regular givers. Because of your faithful support we are able to respond to urgent needs, including provision of aid and building work. We are working with the team to find out longer-term needs of people affected by leprosy and will share more about this in the coming months.

Please join us in prayer as we stand with our brothers and sisters in Myanmar.

-for the dedicated team, many of whom have lost homes and friends.

-for communities affected by leprosy, that we can get the food, water and medicines they need

-for wisdom as repair or move of Mandalay office

Thank you for praying and continuing to be a blessing to people affected by leprosy and the teams who serve them.

Every blessing

Peter