On Project 12, recently completed in Uganda, Africa, we had the pleasure of meeting a gentleman whose name, Grace, perfectly labeled his marvelous attitude of service and gratitude in life. After hearing his story, it is clear why Grace is full of gratitude.
Grace was a patient at one of Sole Hope's Zero Jigger clinics several years ago. When the aid workers found him, he was in pretty bad condition. His hands, feet, and legs (knees) were covered in jiggers. He also had a large gash in his leg. The jiggers were even infesting Grace's open wounds. Due to the severity of this infection, the Sole Hope workers determined that Grace needed to be brought to their Hope Center, where he could be more thoroughly treated for a more extended period. Over the next few weeks, they removed jiggers and healed his wounds.
Once Grace was declared jigger-free, the Hope Center staff helped him relocate back home and ensured he understood preventative hygiene to stay jigger-free. Grace's family was included in this education so that the whole household could remain free from the effects of these insects. Due to his previous condition, the pain that was caused by the jigger infection, Grace had experienced difficulty in maintaining a job and supporting his family. However, now that he was healed, Grace again had the opportunity to work. He got busy at it. In fact, Sole Hope offered him a job in the shoe workshop. He went to work where shoes were made to assist those in Sole Hope's preventative program. Grace was now helping others stay jigger-free.
Grace's story is about a life impact that exponentially grows to impact other lives. The story continues to be replicated by those who give their Mite to help others. Thank you, Grace, for being an inspiration! Thank you, Miters, for being a giving force that is benefitting lives in such a powerful way!