Wanda Błeńska, often called the “Mother of Lepers,” is celebrated as a pioneer in leprosy treatment and a shining example of compassion and dedication. Born on October 30, 1911, in Poznań, Poland, her life was marked by resilience and an unwavering commitment to improving the lives of others. As a physician, resistance fighter, and missionary, she left an indelible mark on both her homeland and Uganda, where she worked for over four decades.
From Wartime Resilience to Pioneering Leprosy Care
Błeńska’s journey began with her medical studies at the University of Poznań, from which she graduated in 1934. Even as a student, she demonstrated a strong interest in missionary work. During World War II, she served as a second lieutenant in the Polish Home Army (Armia Krajowa), where she trained medical teams, organized supplies, and led the women’s branch of the resistance in Toruń. Despite being imprisoned during the war, her determination never faltered.
After the war, Błeńska pursued her passion for tropical medicine, studying in Germany and at the University of Liverpool. In 1951, she arrived in Buluba, a village near Lake Victoria in Uganda, to work at a small leprosy center run by Irish Franciscans. Over time, she transformed the modest facility into an internationally recognized hospital with modern therapeutic and training facilities. The center became a beacon of hope, offering holistic care and challenging societal stigma surrounding leprosy.
A Legacy of Compassionate Care and Lasting Impact
Her innovative efforts included organizing training programs for caregivers and medical professionals, emphasizing the dignity of patients. Her long years of service earned her the affection and respect of the local community, who called her “Dokta.” She worked alongside other Polish doctors, helping to establish a legacy of compassionate care that continues to inspire.
Błeńska’s contributions earned her numerous honors, including Poland’s Grand Cross of the Order of Polonia Restituta and honorary citizenship in both Poznań and Uganda. In 1993, she returned to Poland, where she remained active in humanitarian efforts until her death on November 27, 2014, at the age of 103.
Her life of service and faith has led to the initiation of her beatification process by the Archdiocese of Poznań. Wanda Błeńska’s legacy, embodied in the institutions and lives she transformed, continues to inspire generations. Her remarkable journey underscores the profound difference one individual can make in the world.