Dr Ruth Pfau’s lifelong struggle to defeat leprosy shows that a strong will power is enough to overpower any problem. The lepers’ light gave a shelter to those who were rejected by their blood relatives. It was because of her valuable services that WHO declared Pakistan a leprosy-free country in 1996. She has taught us that we should work for the welfare of the abandoned and the unloved. In our society, a neglectful attitude is not limited to lepers but other communities as well, including the transgender community, are also treated as social pariahs.
If we treat these communities on humanitarian grounds, it will help uplift the already broken souls. We are in a dire need to promote the legacy of Edhi and Pfau. The world of Edhi and Pfau promises hope, peace, enlightenment and a bright future for the entire humanity. The entire nation salutes Dr Pfau for her unflinching commitment and devotion to her cause.
Muhammad Fayyaz (Mianwali)