Lisa's story

Lisa lives in a part of the DR Congo that is still very dangerous.

She was born into a poor family and never received an education. Lisa has albinism and suffers from other health disorders but she can rarely afford to go to the hospital to receive the treatment she needs.

In the Democratic Republic of Congo, it's very dangerous for people with albinism. Gangs kidnap and kill people with albinism in order to sell their body parts. This gruesome trade is fuelled by superstition, as some people believe albino body parts have magical powers.

I am discriminated against in the community. Many people don’t like to collaborate with me or help me.

Lisa was raped by a stranger when she was out working in a field. She was given treatment at the local hospital, but was quickly sent away because she had no money for medical bills. As a result of the attack, Lisa became pregnant and gave birth to a child named Jacob.

Thanks to money raised by our supporters, Lisa received counselling on parenting and how to deal with the trauma she experienced as a result of the rape. She also learned how to grow food and keep her family healthy.

She and her community will now receive help to deal with the impact of coronavirus including, clean water and soap to wash their hands, medical treatment and essential food items to help with rising food costs as a result of the pandemic.

With help from our partners in DR Congo, Lisa is now part of a support group that offers financial advice for those with albinism or who have survived sexual violence.