Day Four.
Today we had the privilege of visiting the King George VI memorial home where Alfred spent the final two and half years of his life. They welcomed us with a song, to which we were invited to speak and chat with the residents. Stories the like of which we could not imagine, but all happy to be in a safe environment with the love and care of the carers apparent.
This was followed by a trip to Lumley beach, where we met Augustus, selling some plaques to scrape a living for his family.
He was able to track down one of the peanut boys who features in our calendar this year. Let me share his story with you. Osman is 11 years old and has been selling peanuts with his two friends for at least 4 years.
However, last February his mother died from a snake bite during her pregnancy. Since then, Osman and his 13 year old sister have been living with their aunt and uncle. Osman sleeps on a towel, and often goes hungry. His life has been changed beyond belief, and his future will be uncertain. He goes to school when his aunt is able to pay the fees of approx £4.50 per month. He says he wants to be a doctor or a footballer, and he supports Liverpool football club. It’s hard to see Osman smile these days, as his face holds the trauma of grief and the hardship that life now holds.
We felt so blessed to have time today to meet and share the stories of these people.
Blessings,
the team,
Sandra, Sarah, Verity and Clive