A Rocky Road to Recovery: Health Struggles, Progress, and Looking Ahead to Christmas

The past eight weeks have been an unexpected challenge for me. After Sandi left, it felt like I was hit with one illness after another—each one more taxing than the last. I’ve just managed to recover from a severe case of malaria and a particularly bad UTI, and honestly, I’m not sure which was worse: the sickness itself or the treatment.

I do not do well with needles. IVs especially send me into a state of pure anxiety. It’s the psychological aspect that gets to me—the feeling that the needle is still inside my hand, even though logically, I know it isn’t. That fear becomes all-consuming. To make matters worse, on the second day of my treatment, I had to get seven new cannulas inserted. Either the line wasn’t in correctly, or the medication messed up the vein, so by the time the next round of treatment was due, the line would be blocked. I honestly cannot express how miserable that experience was. Each time they inserted a new needle, it felt like a personal defeat, but eventually, the worst passed.

The silver lining is that I’m finally on the road to recovery, and as an unexpected bonus, I’ve now built up some immunity to malaria. So, the next time those pesky mosquitoes decide to have a go at me, it will be a different story. If nothing else, at least I’ve got that small victory to cling to!

But beyond the illness, there’s been some great progress. We’ve been moving forward with the new registration process for DOEF, and I’m happy to share that our company registration is complete. We’ve also got a PO Box now—hint, hint to anyone who wants to send a care package. 😁 It’s those little wins that keep me going, and I’m so thankful for the growth we’ve seen in the midst of everything else.

We also now have a new, strong, and dedicated board of trustees for Daughters of Eve Foundation Uganda, which is a huge blessing. I’m excited for what this team will bring to the table as we continue to expand our work and make a deeper impact in the community.

As we head into the holiday season, I’m feeling a mix of emotions. This will be my first Christmas back in Uganda, and I’m looking forward to spending it with my daughter and our extended family—Cornelius, Edith, and their five precious children (my grandbabies). It’s hard to believe that it’s just one month away! Though, I have to admit, it’s a bit strange not hearing Christmas music playing everywhere just yet. Here, it still feels like just another month in the year, but I’m looking forward to making this Christmas special in my own way, surrounded by family and the people I love.

It’s been a tough road to recovery, but with every challenge, I’m reminded of the strength I’ve gained, both physically and spiritually. And I’m so grateful for the people who’ve stood by me during this time—your prayers, encouragement, and support have meant more than words can express.

Looking ahead, I’m excited for what’s to come. We’re making strides in our work, and though the journey hasn’t been easy, I know that it’s all part of the bigger picture that Yahweh is weaving.

Thank you for being part of this journey with me. I’m looking forward to sharing more of our progress and stories as we continue to move forward!