Leprosy has tormented mankind since records began. For much of its long history it was without cure—a disfiguring disease that stigmatised those it affected, isolating them from society. Today there is an effective treatment, but the last mile to achieve a leprosy-free world is the hardest. Now approaching eighty years old, one Japanese philanthropic activist has played a key role in global efforts against leprosy, both as head of a private foundation and as the World Health Organization's 'Goodwill Ambassador for Leprosy Elimination'. In this book, he lays out his personal mission and philosophy, and explains how his father, the politician and philanthropist Ryoichi Sasakawa, influenced his decision to make leprosy elimination his life's work. Yohei Sasakawa has visited more than 100 countries, motivating political leaders, raising awareness via the media, encouraging frontline health workers, and helping to empower persons affected by leprosy and their families to speak out for their rights. His book is a validation of the path taken by a father and son to change the course of leprosy history, and to transform the circumstances of those affected by the disease for the better.

"'"No Matter Where the Journey Takes Me" is the story of a man who has selflessly dedicated his life to bettering the life of others by contributing to the elimination of leprosy, and advocating for the end of the social discrimination it causes. It is the story of disfiguring disease that has afflicted humankind since before history was written, and of a man with a destiny and a mission that are making a difference.'" - London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine

"'Yohei Sasakawa's "No Matter Where the Journey Takes Me" is a moving account of efforts over almost sixty years to fight both disease and discrimination. Despite significant work, an estimated 3 million people around the world are living with disability from leprosy. The book is a rallying cry for a world free of this disease.'" - Nature, The International Journal of Science