A road to recovery in Ethiopia

One year after losing both parents to HIV/AIDS in 2008, Samuel and his two brothers survived on one meal a day provided by a neighbour. As a result, Samuel and his younger brother, Yohannes, suffered from acute malnutrition; their thin legs could hardly support their bloated bodies.

With the children’s situation deteriorating, their neighbours sought help from SOS Children’s Village Harar. In the Village, the children would get a permanent home where all their basic needs would be adequately met.

Today, Samuel is 12-years-old and in sixth grade at the local SOS School. Samuel has a strong emotional attachment to his SOS mother and she is the first person he seeks when he comes home from school.

“I love her. She cares a lot about me. After school she asks me if I am thirsty or if I want to eat a fruit before settling down to do my homework. She even asks me about my day at school,” says Samuel.

When he is not challenging his friends to a game of soccer, Samuel can be found watching the game at home on television.

“I love Soccer, Arsenal is my favourite team,” he says. “I always practice the moves I see on TV and use them here in the Village and in school. I am a good soccer player and everyone wants to be on my team,” says Samuel with a wide smile.

The three brothers are leading a normal life in SOS Children’s Village Harar, surrounded by a family that supports them and looks out for their wellbeing. Samuel says his future looks bright. “I took part in a reading competition in school and received an award for my skills. I know I will be successful in future both academically and as a professional soccer player.”

Canadian's wishing to support SOS Children's Villages are encouraged to sponsor a child, sponsor a village or to make a direct donation. Your support ensures that SOS Children's Villages can continue to provide a safe and loving home to orphan and abandoned children worldwide.