Fighting For Life - One Pound At A Time

Special needs children in Uganda often grow up in impossible circumstances. As a third-world country, Uganda’s homes are in ruins, schools are structurally unsound, and medical care is hard to come by. Inflation, drought, and lack of resources make purchasing quality-food very difficult and nearly impossible in rural Uganda. More than fifth of all Ugandans still lack access to clean water and live below the poverty line. And sadly, millions wake up hungry every day.

Children who live with a disability are subject to malnourishment and can often starve to death. Ambrose was one of those children. Rescued at an approximate age of 17 years-old, Ambrose was found by a Project Orphan’s Child Advocate weighing only 21 lbs. and rushed to our campus. Immediately, he was treated for a high fever, malaria, and developing pneumonia. Honestly, we didn’t believe he would survive. 

The Project Orphan’s medical team and child care takers learned that the mother of Ambrose believed he was a curse, due to his cerebral palsy diagnosis, and would only feed him black tea and whatever was leftover after her five other children would eat.  In Uganda, children with special needs are among the most neglected and ostracized groups. Disabled kids are often considered a curse, discriminated against and stigmatized at home, schools, community, and government policy. 

But Ambrose is a fighter.  Although nonverbal, Ambrose lights up during feedings, when you tickle his arm, and whenever music is played. At the end of 2019, Ambrose moved into our campus permanently. That’s right. Ambrose will need the support of Project Orphans for the rest of his life. And we are honored to stand by his side. 

Throughout 2020, Ambrose began to slowly gain weight. Every pound gained was a victory for the Project Orphan’s team and this amazing boy’s life. Ambrose has a joy and confidence that is infectious and his life is nothing short of miracle. Ambrose now weighs almost 50 lbs. and has increased range of motion through consistent physical therapy! 

Our campus, provides daycare, physical therapy, and daily meals to nearly 20 disabled children who attend our special needs daycare, Blessing’s Cove. Project Orphans also provides 24/7 housing and care to three other children, like Ambrose, who are fighting for their life one pound at a time.