A former donor to Mildmay and our legacy of work in Uganda, Roy P, recently got in touch after a long pause.
Sparked by the desire to learn more about the progress of Lwanga Andrew, a young man that he and his late wife, Yvonne, had met and supported during their visits to Jajja’s Home - part of Mildmay Uganda’s Children’s Palliative HIV/AIDS Care Services.
The couple's involvement with Mildmay Uganda was a life-changing experience, filled with unforgettable memories. They had formed deep bonds with the children and staff at Jajja’s Home, and their daughter, Nicki, had dedicated three years to working there voluntarily. The programme was named Jajja’s Home (Grandma’s Home) by the children - Jajja means grandmother in Luganda*.
"It would be nice to know how Lwanga Andrew has matured into adulthood and his prognosis for the future. I'm sure that someone at Jajja’s Home remembers my daughter Nicki and maybe her parents.
We met Ruth Sims there (Mildmay’s former UK CEO and Mildmay International Director, based in Uganda) and, of course, her wonderful staff, the Jajja's 'Aunties', spending a couple of weeks with them and all the children”.
Roy's desire to find out what happened with Lwanga Andrew led him to reach out to us. Thanks to the help of Agnes Nakanwagi, Mildmay Uganda Hospital’s Psychosocial Services Manager, who delved into the hospital’s records and made contact, we were able to trace Andrew’s whereabouts.
Lwanga Andrew, now a 24-year-old young man living in Greater Kampala, shared his gratitude for Mildmay Uganda's support throughout his childhood. With Roy’s family’s assistance, he was able to complete his high school education and acquire valuable skills through an apprenticeship. Today, he is successfully earning a living in the construction industry.
Andrew expressed himself with lots of love, “I appreciate Mildmay Uganda for supporting me since childhood... I cannot forget my friends from Jajja’s Home. They loved me so much that I am who am today. God bless you abundantly. Just know I am healthy and living positively. I am virally suppressed and happy about life. I love you all and I know one day we shall meet and catch up”.
Andrew’s story demonstrates the enduring impact of Mildmay Uganda's work and the positive outcomes that can result from the generosity of donors like Roy and his family. As he continues to support Mildmay, Roy is not only helping to provide essential care to children in need but also fostering a sense of hope and possibility for the future.
*The Bantu language of the Baganda people, widely used in Uganda and having over 2 million speakers.
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