My Story

"Triumph of Faith: The Inspiring Journey of Opiyo Balaam"

 In the heart of the newly formed district of Omoro, carved out from Gulu, there lives a remarkable young boy named Opiyo Balaam. At just 13 years old, Balaam is the eldest of four brothers, all living under the humble roof of a hut that stands as a testament to their resilience and unity.

Balaam's father, a part-time primary school teacher in a nearby school, and his mother, a hardworking farmer, have done their utmost to provide for their family. Despite their efforts, life has not been easy, especially for Balaam, who faces a unique set of challenges.

Balaam was not born with his disability. As an infant, he was immunized with a faulty vaccine, which led to his current condition. Now, he relies on a wheelchair for mobility, his brothers often assisting him, pushing his wheelchair around the village and helping him with his daily needs. Yet, in the face of adversity, Balaam's spirit remains unbroken.

I first met Balaam during a field visit to Omoro. His bright eyes and quick smile immediately caught my attention. As we conversed, I was struck by his fluency in English and his sharp intellect. He was a brilliant boy, his mind a wellspring of potential. Despite his physical limitations, he had come fourth in his class, a testament to his determination and academic prowess.

But what struck me most about Balaam was his unwavering faith. Despite the hardships he faced, he held a deep love for God in his heart. He believed, with a conviction that was both humbling and inspiring, that God would one day heal him. His mother shared this faith, her eyes shining with hope and love for her eldest son.

Balaam's story is one of resilience, faith, and untapped potential. He is a beacon of hope in his community, a testament to the power of the human spirit in the face of adversity. Enrolling him in the sponsorship program of Amigos Internacionales would not only provide him with the resources he needs to further his education and improve his quality of life, but it would also be a powerful affirmation of his worth and potential.

In Balaam, we see not just a child in need, but a future leader, a beacon of hope, and a testament to the power of faith and resilience. His story is a call to action, a reminder that every child, regardless of their circumstances, holds within them the potential to change the world.