Leonard Wood Memorial
A century of science and compassion—now, one mission.
Leonard Wood Memorial, founded in 1928 to honor General Leonard Wood’s vision for defeating leprosy, is a historic partner of Hope Rises International. The research and field programs of the Leonard Wood Memorial accelerated better diagnosis, treatment, and dignity for people affected by leprosy.
Leonard Wood Memorial History
From early laboratory and clinical work to today’s global collaborations, Leonard Wood Memorial’s science has informed modern multi-drug therapy pathways and continues to back innovation
Founded in New York in 1928 to pursue leprosy research and public education.
Leonard Wood Memorial became affiliated with American Leprosy Missions (now Hope Rises International) in March 2006
The Name
As Governor General of the Philippines (1921–1927), Leonard Wood repeatedly championed improved facilities, treatment access, and funding for people affected by leprosy. On the eve of his final surgery in 1927, he said:
"I must hurry back to my job… There’s one more thing I want to do before I die and that is to clear the Philippines of leprosy."
Hope Starts With Healing
Right now, men, women, and children are suffering—isolated by disease, alone in their pain, and without hope. But together, we can change that.
From delivering critical medicines and supplies to equipping pastors with training and resources to care for their communities, we are reaching even the most marginalized people with the healing and hope they most desperately need. With your support today, Hope Rises!
