Final Farewells

Having postponed it so many times, we would not blame you for thinking we may never leave Uganda. But we are now on our way back to Blighty having had an emotional few weeks saying goodbye to all the good friends that we've made here.
 
On our last night we'd planned a few quiet farewell drinks at our regular Friday evening haunt, but unbeknown to us close friends had arranged a big party complete with speeches, slideshow presentation of our time here and topped off with an African band and dancers. It was a fitting end to a fantastic 17 months.

We're now very much looking forward to seeing you all back home

Party on...!

As promised, here is a link to a short film of the children's party we held for the Namuwongo community a few weeks ago. Thank you again to all those who contributed in terms of their time, money and party paraphernalia! Thank you too to Lucy and her team from Childs i Foundation who produced the film.

 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ezdi24FGXCk

'I now declare this building open...'

It's not every day you get to open a new building complete with a plaque with your name on it, so we felt very privileged and proud to be able to attend the annual parents' day at the Royal Pride Academy, at which we were guests of honour. One part of the celebrations included the official opening of the school building funded by your generous donations.

The teachers and pupils had put a huge amount of effort into making the day very special. There were various songs, dances and even a fashion show with clothes made from newspaper! There were speeches from the headteacher, a parents' representative, politicians and an emotional farewell and thank you from Alan. A special mention was given to our friends and family, whose invaluable support made the whole project possible.

The day also encompassed a graduation ceremony from the nursery school, where 'Dr Alison' was responsible for handing out the certificates.

We feel very honoured to have been a part of such an inspiring and committed group of people, and are very sad to say goodbye. We know that they will continue to flourish and undertake the great work of educating some of the most underprivileged children in Uganda. We will never forget them.

Adding an Appendix to our Stay in Uganda!

 

With just a matter of days remaining of our stay in Uganda, we thought it remiss that our medical exposure here be limited to Alison’s involvement within IMG, so with that in mind, Alan selflessly underwent an emergency appendicectomy on Friday at IHK!! As Alison elected not to join them in theatre (much to the surprise of the team?!), the surgeon felt it necessary to bring the offending organ out for her perusal, as featured below!

There had been a lot of debate as to whether or not to operate - a decision that is not taken lightly out here as you can appreciate!! - with the preference being a more conservative approach where possible. Alison was not that patient and Alan was under the knife just over 24 hours after his first twinge and apparently just in the nick of time judging by the state of his appendix. Thank you to you all for your advice and support on the 'To operate or not to operate' debate - it was really appreciated!

Alan is now recovering well in hospital and has been receiving excellent care from the staff at IHK.

As a result of this surgical setback, our return to the UK will be delayed...again, but hopefully only by a few days! Thanks again to everyone for your get well wishes. Above is Zoe's Get Well Soon card, which somewhat morbidly turned into a 'Fairwell' card, but looking at Alan in the picture you can't blame her for that!!