Manna from Heaven

“Heaven’s wingspan is large enough to lift the hearts of the world. “

We visited a rescue home that is run by the most incredible woman I have ever had a chance to meet personally. She is such an inspiration to us all and is now my new role model. She came to Uganda from the States, despite protests from her family, over two decades ago and has stayed. She has been intimidated, poisoned, threatened and ridiculed, but she continues to persevere and endure the hardships of Uganda. At almost 75 and with significant health issues, she works 10 hours a day most days and runs a tight ship. She is fierce in her love for the children that she serves. The rescue home is amazing- full of hope and goodness and caring. Her staff are dedicated to her and the children that have been rescued. All the children have AIDS and they are thriving with the proper care and antiretroviral treatment regime that is being administered to them by the nurse on site. Their medical records and appointments are adhered to in a fastidious manner. The children are healthy and happy and active and enjoy good quality of life. And they know that they are loved. Unlike other homes that we visited where I literally wanted to grab the children and take them to a safer place, I felt at peace at this rescue home and understood that the children belonged and were where they needed to be.

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Unfortunately there is a push for them to be reintegrated back into their original homes where they were neglected and at risk of dying. One of the beautiful kids we met was brought to the rescue home at age four, unable to walk, and had been tied to the bedpost on a daily basis, whilst his father went to work. After two years at the rescue home, he is running around and becoming an excellent soccer player.

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This incredible women also runs the Youth Encouragement Services program whereby she finds sponsors for orphan children to pay for their school fees as well as their basic necessities. There are about 280 students in this program. She unfortunately has to turn just as many away on a regular basis. HEAL has partnered with her and together they are making huge difference in the lives of these orphaned children. And there are many other projects that they are involved in including skills training.

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I truly believe that this wonderful woman, who shall remain nameless to protect her, is one of God’s angels- albeit a very feisty one!

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