Despite trying to be prepared for my trip and even with extensive first-hand knowledge of AIDS in both the United States and Romania, I was deeply shocked by the poverty and devastation AIDS has caused in Uganda. However, I was even more surprised by the resilient spirit of these children. They make do with no material possessions and no close family. They are emotionally healthy for the most part. Many of the children spoke no English.
Schools are open sheds with a blackboard, and even that costs a fee.
The headmaster tries to give the children the most basic knowledge and some handcraft skills. Many of the parents are illiterate. For those orphans living with grandparents it is a real luxury to attend school. Adults feel the children are needed to help grow the food rather than go to school. Word usually traveled fast about my presence and a large group of people would gather at one homestead to welcome me.