Raban’s Story
Raban is in college studying to be a primary school teacher. Carol asked the children to think about and then write about this question: “What would you like the donors to know? How have donor contributions helped you?” At Carol’s birthday party at the farm, the children wrote their responses.
With warm regards, there are countless numbers of things I would like to give thanks and appreciate for Action for Children Zambia, its entire management board and donor community.
First, I would like to share my history. Before AFCZ, my life was not as it is today. Nothing was easy. Both parents were dead and I was living with my older sister. She had to marry an abusive man just so we had a roof over our heads. Things were very difficult and I was always sick. When Frances, my older brother, was injured in the streets and taken in by Mama Carol, it saved my life and my sister's life too. Without AFCZ, I would have been in the grave long ago.
I met Mama Carol in 2008 when she and Frances came for a home visit. I was very sick and covered in oozing sores. As soon as she saw me, I could tell her heart was gripped with sorrow. I was almost dead. However, Mama Carol did her work on me with enthusiasm and tireless compassion. She took me to CorpMed clinic where I tested positive for HIVAids and I began my journey to becoming healthy. Today, I am strong and healthy. I remain under the care of TT&F clinic and take just one pill a day to manage the HIV.
Mama Carol cared for more than my health. She worked hard to motivate me and taught me many things applicable to life. She enrolled me in school even though I was 12 years old and had never been in school before. My first day of school was like a miracle to me.
I have so many things to thank you for. Without you, I would be dead. Without you, I would not have gone to school. Without you, I would never have known my HIV status. Without you, I would not be in college studying primary education. Without you, I would never have become a union leader for the sports community.
You are not only helping me, but also the whole of Zambia. We are all applying the things Mama Carol teaches us to our lives in the communities. AFCZ has produced many leaders and I hope to be a country wide leader one day. With a humble and grateful heart, I say thank you.
May God protect and bless you as you continue this great and holy work.
Your Son,
Raban Manda
