Before we left Kamuli, I wanted to see Maria’s Care just one last time and only from the outside. The old track down to it from Godfrey’s cafe was now a proper tarmac road! The patch of grass where they used to slaughter cows had gone, so there would be no scavenger birds pooing on heads anymore!
I got out of the vehicle and crossed the road to get a better shot. I was stood there reminiscing when the big metal doors opened ‘Madam Gerree! How are you? Welcome back. Come, come.’ Indicating for me to enter, and of course I did! He was Patrick, one of the boys from the children’s home and was now a member of staff, and had remembered me! It was so heartwarming to feel his joy and warmth for me. He mentioned my Kilimanjaro display in the big hall, and even recalled Jambo the song I sang so many times there! I had so enjoyed those first few years at MC before the charity had run into problems, it had prepared me for life working independently in Uganda. The place hadn’t changed much other than looking very smart painted blue and white. The school motto still With God All Things Are Possible. I briefly said hi to the headteacher, not accepting the chair offered as I knew that would lead to a long explanation about the school and the grand tour! The heavens opened as I was about to leave, really heavy soaking, difficult to walk in rain. So I had to stay put until it eased a little and Peter had driven the vehicle in to pick me up!