As a great theologian, Desmond Tutu once said, “Hope, is being able to see that there is light despite all of the darkness”. To give a ray of hope to someone who recently lost it would be one of the greatest deeds a person could ever do. I would like to consider the project “HOPE” as such an attempt.
Concurring with World Cancer Day, we the members of Rotaract Club of University of Colombo decided to visit the Apeksha Hospital, Maharagama and spend a day with the children. Of course, we didn’t go there empty handed. We got the little ones gifts and sweets for the evening and most importantly, we got them the smiles they and their families had lost.
When we arrived there around 2p.m they’ve had their lunch and were playing in the open area. Some of their family members were also with them. They seemed to enjoy the time spent with their brothers and sisters.
Next we gathered around them and their families for some talking. Later on we had a sing-along session with them. We couldn’t help shed a tear, seeing how talented they were. It was such an emotional moment.
Then we played a game where everyone had to sit around and pass a cap until the music was playing. When the music stops, the one with the cap should come to the center and dance.
They seemed to really enjoy playing with us. Their smiles said it all.
After we were done with the games, we visited them in their rooms and gifted them with sanitary items and stationery. Along with the presents, we gave each of them a handmade card with a beautiful poem written. I think they really loved it. Without us knowing, the day came to an end when we had to say goodbye to those beautiful souls. After leaving the hospital premises with a heavy heart, on my way back, I remembered a saying once Dr. Martin Luther King Jr said, “We must accept disappointment, but never lose infinite hope”.
Written by Rtr. Thuthi Dilni
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