Group photo at the Joy Center for Autism
Wednesday morning we went to the “Joy Center for Autism”, and then to “A Door of Hope” in the afternoon. The Joy Center treated us to a lovely coffee ceremony and a fantastic lunch with collard greens, green beans, avocados and tomatoes, engera and shiro. We toured the facility and played a bit with the children. Both the teachers and the kids were happy to see Kayla and I again. Kayla played outside with them while we were talking inside. More supplies were brought like wooden puzzles, tennis balls, musical instruments, etc. Some in our group were so impressed that they donated money to the wonderful efforts of the school! I am proud to have been a part of this school for the last few weeks.
Children at "A Door of Hope"
“A Door of Hope” is a school for underprivileged children, orphans, or children with HIV parents. They performed songs and races for us. The school is directed by a young Rotaract member that is only 21 years old! She is an amazing young lady. We had another great day.
More children waiting to go home
We made one other stop at the Fistula clinic where we got a quick tour just before they closed. The fistula clinic is where young girls can get treatment for injuries caused during the birth process. They have often suffered the loss of their unborn child and the trauma of the fistula, so pictures are not allowed at the clinic of the girls. There are over 10,000 cases of fistula (tears into the bladder and rectum through the birthing canal due to pressue of prolonged labor) in Africa. Fistula does not exist in the USA because everyone can get to a hospital and have a cesearean performed if necessary. There are many girls waiting to have the surgery done at various other outreach programs. Oprah Winfrey built this wing that kayla and I are standing next to.
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