By Nathan Eyagu 

SOROTI - For too long, many persons living with disabilities in Teso have endured a life of struggle, isolation, and silent pain - unable to move freely, forced to rely on others for even the simplest of tasks. But hope is rising. Action of Love International, a beacon of compassion and change, is not only giving them mobility but also a future.  

On Friday, March 14, 2024, at their head office, the organization handed over 30 wheelchairs to beneficiaries from Soroti and Katakwi Districts - a moment of pure joy, where tears of gratitude flowed freely.

In a monumental step towards transforming lives, the organization has announced plans to build a rehabilitation center - a place where persons with disabilities will receive care, empowerment, and a renewed sense of purpose.  

Speaking at the event, Jefferson Kandi, Executive Director of Action of Love International, could not hide his emotion as he shared the organization’s vision:  

"We are not just distributing wheelchairs; we are restoring dignity. Many of these individuals have lived in unbearable conditions, forgotten by society. But today, we are telling them that they matter. We are committed to building a rehabilitation center where they will receive the support they need - not just to survive, but to thrive." 

The center will offer physical therapy, social support, and skills training, ensuring that beneficiaries do not just receive aid but regain control over their lives.  

"We are targeting 300 beneficiaries in Teso alone this year," Kandi added. "But our dream is bigger. We are extending our reach to other regions, including Busoga. No one should be left behind."

For many of the beneficiaries, receiving a wheelchair was more than just getting mobility aid - it was the beginning of a new life.  

Stella Bertan Apunikol, 97, from Kapujan Sub-County in Katakwi District, has spent over 40 years trapped in immobility, relying on others to carry her from one place to another. The burden weighed heavily on her loved ones, and the helplessness she felt was overwhelming. But today, everything changed.  

As she placed her frail hands on the wheelchair, tears streamed down her face.  

"This is the greatest gift I have ever received. I never thought I would see this day," she whispered, her voice shaking with emotion.  

For Ekanu John, from Tubur Sub-County in Soroti District, the wheelchair was an unexpected miracle.  

"I had given up. I never thought I would move freely again. But today, I feel like I have been given a second chance at life," he said, his smile hiding years of silent pain.  

Other beneficiaries echoed similar sentiments, their faces lighting up with gratitude as they embraced the newfound independence they had long yearned for.  

Action of Love International’s impact is far from temporary. With the planned rehabilitation center, the organization is taking a bold step towards breaking the cycle of neglect and stigma that persons with disabilities have endured for years.  

"Love in action is what the world needs," Kandi emphasized. "And we will not stop until every person living with a disability knows that they are seen, valued, and supported."

As the sun set on that emotional day, one thing was clear - this was more than just a donation. It was a message of hope, a promise of a better tomorrow, and a reminder that no one should ever feel forgotten.