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July 21, 2006
Shamim (shuh-meem)
21 July 2006 Went to visit sweet Shamim. She lives near Budadiri with her grandparents and other relatives. Shamim, like Charles and James, is an orphan. We met Shamim a couple weeks ago at the TASO Mbale children's clinic. She came to TASO less than a year ago after approaching a TASO staff person she saw in her village - she said, "Look at me, I am sick. Something is wrong with me and there is no one to look after me." Shamim has been receiving counseling and medical care at TASO ever since. She is taking ARVs, and getting to her TASO appointments regularly.
Shamim and her TASO counselor, Charity.
Shamim is the cutest! She has so much charisma and spunk. Everyone at TASO knows her. She sings songs, gives great hugs, and rarely frowns; she's a charmer. We all fell in love with Shamim that day. We insisted that Barbara, our TEACH coordinator, take us to Shamim's home for a visit.
We brought Shamim some food, sweets, and school supplies. It was refreshing to see that Shamim is living in a nice home, surrounded by love. Her grandfather told us that he's lost four of his children to AIDS. He often worries about losing Shamim. "She brings me so much happiness," he said.
Shamim ties her head scarf as her grandfather watches her with admiration, hope, and love.
I left Shamim's home feeling rejuvenated and energetic. I can't explain it, her aura. She makes you feel good. She makes you smile. She makes you feel safe and calm. She lets you know, without saying anything, that she's gonna be alright. She is only 6 years old. She must have an old soul.
Posted by kmf23 at July 21, 2006 01:13 PM
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Comments
Dear Kelly,
I love you very much! Help the children they are the future. Next time I will come along, you can show me the ropes. I'll do my Nursing thing. Babies and children are my business. We can get Aunt Mary and Aunt Moe. We will be a little medical team!!
Posted by: aunt ann at July 24, 2006 05:14 AM
Thank you for sharing your experiences and photos. This is a beautiful blog. I am trying to learn as much as possible about Mbale region of Uganda as we have just signed to sponsor a beautiful little 2 y.o. girl named Kezia there. I wish I were able to do more. The story of Charles made me tear up. I signed up for updates to your blog and look forward to learning more.
Posted by: Jennifer at July 23, 2006 08:10 AM
Kelly, I hope all is well with you. I love you and look forward to your updates. The pictures are amazing.
Love Dad
Posted by: stelio flamos at July 23, 2006 01:14 AM
Kelly, I hope all is well with you. I love you and look forward to your updates. The pictures are amazing.
Love Dad
Posted by: stelio flamos at July 23, 2006 01:14 AM