Dr. Ruth Pfau, a German-born Pakistani doctor, dedicated her life to serving the people of Pakistan, particularly those affected by leprosy. Her selfless devotion and tireless efforts earned her a special place in the hearts of Pakistanis. Even in death, Dr. Pfau’s wishes reflected her love for the country and its people.

Before passing away, Dr. Pfau expressed three wishes: she didn’t want to be placed on a ventilator, she wanted her body to be brought to the Leprosy Center after her death, and she wanted to be buried in a bridal dress. The first two wishes were fulfilled, and when her body was brought to the Leprosy Center, it was met with an outpouring of emotions. For her final wish, Dr. Pfau was dressed in a red bridal gown in her coffin, with a serene expression on her face. This poignant gesture symbolized her lifelong commitment to serving others, as she had renounced worldly life as a nun.

In 1960, Dr. Pfau, then a 29-year-old German doctor, made the unexpected decision to settle in a slum area of Karachi. At that time, leprosy patients were abandoned in the railway colony adjacent to I.I. Chundrigar Road in Karachi, left to suffer and die. Undeterred by the challenges, Dr. Pfau established a hospital there and worked tirelessly to eradicate the leprosy colony. Her dedication and perseverance led to the elimination of leprosy from Pakistan, earning international recognition in 1996.

Dr. Pfau spent over 50 years of her life in Pakistan, living a simple and austere life in a small room with minimal possessions. She never sought publicity or recognition for her work, content to continue her mission quietly. Her selflessness and devotion inspired countless individuals, and her legacy continues to live on in the hearts of Pakistanis.

In 1988, Dr. Pfau was granted Pakistani citizenship, a testament to her unwavering commitment to the country and its people. Her decision to settle in Pakistan and dedicate her life to serving its people was a remarkable act of selflessness, one that has left an indelible mark on the nation.

Dr. Ruth Pfau’s story serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration, reminding us of the transformative power of selfless service and devotion. Her legacy continues to inspire generations, a testament to the enduring impact of one person’s unwavering commitment to making a difference.

Throughout her life, Dr. Pfau faced numerous challenges, but her determination and faith kept her going. She worked tirelessly, often in difficult conditions, to provide medical care and support to those affected by leprosy. Her dedication and compassion earned her the respect and admiration of the people she served.

Dr. Pfau’s work went beyond medical care; she also worked to raise awareness about leprosy and reduce the stigma associated with the disease. She believed that every individual deserved dignity and respect, regardless of their condition. Her efforts led to a significant reduction in leprosy cases in Pakistan and improved the lives of countless individuals and families.

In addition to her work with leprosy patients, Dr. Pfau also established various social welfare programs, including education and vocational training initiatives. She believed in empowering individuals and communities to improve their lives and become self-sufficient.

Dr. Pfau’s legacy extends beyond her work with leprosy patients and social welfare programs. She inspired a generation of healthcare professionals and social workers to follow in her footsteps. Her selflessness and devotion serve as a reminder of the importance of compassion and service to humanity.

In conclusion, Dr. Ruth Pfau’s life and legacy are a testament to the power of selfless service and devotion. Her tireless efforts to eradicate leprosy from Pakistan and improve the lives of countless individuals and families have left an indelible mark on the nation. Her story serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration, reminding us of the transformative power of compassion and service to humanity.

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