Greetings

Last year, I was sent to Zambia to report on a really exciting story for World Vision magazine. It was about a program to train and equip volunteers caring for those suffering from AIDS. There are now more than 15,000 trained caregivers reaching out all over the country. They tend the sick, check the welfare of AIDS orphans, and those now living in child-headed households.

The condition of some they see is tragic. Patrick (pictured) spends most of his days in a cramped, darkened room, lying on a dirty mattress. Most of the time he is too ill to do much except stare at the ceiling. The one bright spot in his day is when caregivers like Charity Chimpande come and tend to the sores on his body, chat, pray with him, and prepare him some food. The compassion and dedication of Charity and caregivers like her broke my heart. They do not always have a pleasant job. Sometimes they have to clean up patients' vomit and diarrhea.      

Unfortunately, Patrick is unable to take anti-retroviral drugs (ARVs) because of a TB complication. However, most AIDS patients can now access the drugs. The effect of such drugs is amazing. Many who were literally on their death beds are now enjoying full lives--a phenomenon known as the Lazarus Effect. Many formerly desperately ill patients have gone on to become caregivers themselves.

World Vision gives caregivers basic health kits and sometimes a bicycle to extend their reach. The organization trains them to treat opportunistic infections and identify when more expert medical help is required. World Vision also explains to caregivers the correct use of ARVs, which is a complex treatment regimen. That way caregivers can ensure their patients are taking their medication properly. 

At first, going to Zambia was just another assignment for me, but I came to see the work of the caregivers is transforming lives. Parents who might now be dead or incapacitated, are alive and can look after their children. Orphaned children who might now be surviving by begging, have caregivers looking out for them and ensuring they can get back into school.

This year, I decided to participate in the Seattle Rock 'n' Roll half-marathon to raise money to support this work. If you would consider sponsoring me in this effort through this Web page, I would greatly appreciate it.

Thank you so much!

 

James

PS: If you would like to read the story I wrote for the magazine, visit www.worldvision.org/magazine and look up the Autumn 2008 issue.