Living with leprosy meant more than physical suffering for Pandiripalli Gopallamma—it meant social rejection, poverty, and a life dependent on begging for survival. Like many affected by the disease, she faced stigma that pushed her to the margins of society, where dignity felt out of reach.
Profile Snapshot
Name: Pandiripalli Gopallamma
Age: 50 years
Location: Bobbili, Andhra Pradesh
Health Condition: Leprosy (cured, with deformities)
Support Provided: Livelihood support through the SHG loan
Life Before Support
Due to visible deformities caused by leprosy, Gopallamma was unable to find regular work. Social exclusion left her isolated, and with no stable income, she was forced to beg to meet her daily needs. Each day was a struggle—not just for food, but for dignity and self-worth.
BFDT’s Intervention
When Brighter Future Development Trust reached her community, the team assessed Gopallamma’s situation and identified livelihood support as the key to restoring her independence. She was provided with a Self-Help Group loan to start a small coin-box mobile phone service business, along with guidance and continuous follow-up support.
A Turning Point
With this opportunity, Gopallamma began earning a stable daily income. For the first time in years, she no longer depended on begging. Her business allowed her to meet her basic needs, manage her health expenses, and contribute responsibly toward loan repayment. More importantly, she regained confidence and respect within her community.
“Today, I earn with dignity and no longer depend on others for survival.”
— Gopallamma
A Future Rebuilt with Dignity
Gopallamma’s journey reflects the true essence of Brighter Future’s work—moving beyond relief to empowerment. With timely support and belief in human potential, lives once defined by stigma can be transformed into stories of resilience and self-reliance.
