Today I had my first glimpse of the sorrow that is connected with the babies at Cradle of Love. Davona and I drove into Usa River to review the results of 3 babies' HIV tests. All 3 tested positive. I asked Davona what this meant for the children, and this is what I learned:
-Even with medication, they will probably not live to see age 15
-There is little to no chance of their adoption with a positive test result. Most Tanzanians don't want HIV positive babies, and the few foreigners who would accept them regardless cannot get around all the red tape required to get the children into the U.S.
We drove back to Cradle of Love in silence, after Davona called one baby's prospective adoptive mother (an American) and told her the sad news. The woman burst into tears.
These babies have their future decided for them. It's not fair, and it's so painful to watch.
On a brighter note, the kids at Cradle of Love are happy. For now, they do not know what HIV is or if they have it. Today was the first time I had a sad thought since arriving. Downstairs in the baby home it is all joy. The children are well-adjusted and happy, and they know that they are loved.
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I created this blog to keep all my friends, family, and supporters up-to-date on my trip to Africa. In September 2008 I came to spend 8 months at the Cradle of Love Baby Home in Arusha, Tanzania. I really appreciate everyone who takes time to read my blog, and I would love to hear from you! Blessings, Katie
1 comment:
Hi, Katie - Your Mom just left our home in Grants Pass. Steve and I had lunch with you and your Mom at the cafeteria at Gladstone Campmeeting.
You are on quite an adventure. Sounds like much fun except for this entry. So sad that little children are infected through no fault of their own.
May God bless you as you minister to these little ones. You will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Crystal
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