From left to right: Rose, Annet, Siragye, Oliver and Diana

"I am a mother of two beautiful girls. On 2nd May 2024 I went into labour awaiting to behold another girl and at last she was here. When I saw her my heart sank. I could tell she had Down syndrome and honestly nothing could have ever prepared me for this phase of my life. I left the hospital with so many questions that no one could give answers to. I was broken. I had dreams for my child but at that moment I felt like they were shattered and I could not stop crying.

Growing up I had seen two children with Down syndrome and when I became a mom I always prayed that none of my children would be born with Down syndrome. But Kiara was here and not only had Down syndrome but she had a heart defect too. I was broken and did not know how to move on from there.

During that time I met Lynsay B. who had walked this journey before and she became a sister. She literally held my hand and walked with me as I tried to forge my way forward. She spoke hope and helped me feel seen and heard. It didn't take away everything, I felt but it lessened my burden. I knew I was not alone and if I needed someone to talk to she would be there because she understood what I was going through.

Unfortunately what I went through is the reality for so many parents in Uganda. My baby girl eventually passed on, but she left me with an assignment to reach out a hand to fellow moms and hold their hands as they try to navigate their way just like Lynsay did for me. That's why we, at the Down Syndrome Centre of Kampala, are here. We understand the uniqueness of this journey and we want to come alongside you and support you and your child."

If you're a mom, a dad, a sibling, or another caregiver in Kampala with a child needing support, or if you know someone who is, please connect with us! We want to help you and your child get the assistance you need to reach your full potential.

We're building a community of special kids and their families, and we'd love for you to join us. Together, let's raise these amazing children that God has entrusted us with.