Thrice Unlucky, But Never Down

Great news: our unlucky volunteer Anne is back at work! She has completed her first week at a Bristol care home, still on crutches.

Let’s now rewind to early February, on the shores of Lake Bunyonyi …

Enter Anne, an enthusiastic British woman. After a two-week trip through Uganda, she extends her stay a month to volunteer at Bufuka Primary School. Teaching inexperience doesn’t hold her back; she feels educational fire in her.

Anne’s plans get hit by the Uganda elections. Authorities belatedly announce a one-week delay to the school year, leaving her with a load of free time.

But the setback becomes a chance to bond with the Edirisa team. “It was a great time! I helped in the kitchen, did some cleaning, and was a ‘guinea pig’ for a brand new tour to the blacksmiths. What a day we had!” says Anne.

The team soon learns Anne is hands-on and doesn’t want to be treated like a guest. Sweeping, cleaning, dishes: she doesn’t mind! Always ready for a chat or a hand, she earns the nickname “Mama.”

On 10 February school finally opens. Anne’s first week is full of impressions as she teaches and observes classes, noticing differences in teaching style. The stricter approach clashes with her beliefs, but she presses on. As a native speaker, deciding what to teach is easy.

Then comes the fateful 15 February.

After a wonderful day out, Anne slips on some steps and instantly knows her ankle is badly hurt. “The staff were amazing. They took great care of me until I reached a clinic in Kabale. The doctor confirmed a trimalleolar fracture and said I’d need surgery. So, heavy-hearted, I booked a flight home for 16 February.”

The next day, against orders, Anne tries walking to the restroom on her crutches. Things go from bad to worse: she falls, with blood and bruises to show for it.

Escorted by our team to Kigali, she knows a tough operation awaits in the UK. Thankfully it goes well, though recovery is a bumpy road. She doesn’t give up. A holiday in Mallorca, not fully healed? Better than waiting at home!

Anne stays upbeat, focusing on the positive: “Edirisa made me feel welcome and nothing was too much trouble for anyone. I will return, with my husband.”