Two generations of dedication to the cause
It would not be an understatement to say the name Leach is legendary within LEPRA. Joan and her daughter Rachel have been dedicated supporters and friends of the organisation for decades and in that time have raised many thousands of pounds supporting LEPRA.
Mongoose Moon helps to fund projects that improve conditions and opportunities for people who have suffered because of leprosy, making a connection between those who make, and those who wear. It is often difficult for people who have had leprosy to get back to work. Most of the Mongoose Moon fabrics are woven in a leprosy rehabilitation village in Northern India that specialises in hand weaving.
Joan’s husband Walter was also a devoted supporter and friend of LEPRA and worked for the organisation in East Africa for many years. It was there he met his future wife Joan and there also that their daughter Rachel was born. Even when he officially retired in 1969 he continued to promote LEPRA and raised money by selling his paintings and stained glass. This continued until the end of his long and interesting life. He is a man people will never forget.
In 2001 he received the MBE. for his services to LEPRA and in 2003 he was recognised by the Beacon Fellowship for charitable fund-raising. Walter sadly died in 2003 at the age of 103.
However his legacy carries on through Joan who is still busy designing and creating beautiful and elegant items of jewellery, using beads from all over the world, with all her profits going to LEPRA. You can also find examples of her work for sale on the Mongoose Moon web site.
We publish an electronic version of LEPRA News on our website but if you would like to be kept up to date by e-mail please complete the form below.
