Posted from the Retrak website:
Andrew was brought to Retrak from the International Hospital Kampala (IHK). A week earlier Andrew had been found lying half dead along Kampala’s railway line, a train had hit his left leg and crushed it. The medical staff at IHK were wondering how he could be hit by a train when Andrew began to convulse from fits. It was established that Andrew suffered from epilepsy and must have been crossing the railway when he suffered an epileptic attack. Andrew received excellent care at IHK, but nevertheless needed to have his left leg amputated. Following his operation Andrew could not believe he had only one leg and found it hard physically to adjust his movement and coordination accordingly. It was clear he would need both psychological and physical therapy.
Not knowing his background, IHK referred Andrew to Retrak where social workers and the project nurse provided him with support, counselling and a stable, loving environment. Over time this care enabled him to accept his medical condition, make friends and gain confidence in participating in educational and sporting activities. The Retrak nurse was able to identify a neuro- paediatrician who was able to treat Andrew’s epilepsy and slowly his fits reduced and became manageable.
Following his recovery Andrew felt ready to return home to his family. Retrak staff were still somewhat unclear as to how Andrew ended up on the streets but with him so keen to return home, they set off cautiously to try to resettle him in Lugazi with his family. In Lugazi, nobody there could believe that he had returned and Andrew was so happy, shouting and calling to his siblings “I am back!” Immediately, everyone began celebrating his return, and he is now happy living at home with all his extended family.
*Children’s names have been changed and they are all happy for us to share their story with you
