THE MAKOGAI LEPERS

Otago Daily Times, Issue 22958, 13 August 1936, Page 16

THE MAKOGAI LEPERS

TO THE EDITOR,

Sir—l feel it is my duty as well as a pleasure to appeal to our New Zealand people on behalf of our 577 leper friends at Makogai, Fiji. There are 78 leprous children at this station, and over 100 of the patients are from New Zealand and its dependencies. These sadly afflicted people eagerly look forward to the gifts sent to them, and the arrival of the steamer from our shores at Christmas time is a real red letter day on the island. AI about this festive season lepers may be seen wandering on the beach looking out to sea. When asked ‘ What are you looking for? ” they have replied “We are looking to see if there is any steamer coming from New Zealand. We hope they have not forgotten us.” Our little presents have helped the patients to keep their minds off the dread disease and reawaken their lost interest in life, and are an aid in their cure. Last year 47 patients were discharged as cured. The chief medical officer of Christchurch, Dr T. Fletcher Telford, is associated with me in this appeal as joint trustee. Gifts sent by rail or post office and addressed to me ior the lepers are now charged at half rates. Gifts may be sent to me care of the Christchurch Gas Company, Worcester street, and will be duly acknowledged. Donations of cash will enable us to buy what may be in short supply, and all money is spent in New Zealand. We wish to express our sincere thanks for the great help given us in the past, and trust to receive a continuation of support to this most worthy appeal.—l am, etc.. P. J. Twomcy, Hon. Collector. Christchurch, August 10.