February 20, 2020 | An Introduction to Andrew’s Story
February 21, 2020 | Andrew’s Surgery Goes Well
End of February | Physical Therapy Begins for Andrew
April 1, 2020 | Casts Are Removed
May 7, 2020 | Andrew Rides A Bike
June 2, 2020 | The O.U.R. Family Celebrates Andrew’s Birthday
June 23, 2020 | Andrew’s Social Worker Needs Your Encouragement
September 2020 | Andrew Thrives in School
November 2020 | Equine Therapy
When “Andrew” was 6 years old, he was kidnapped with the purpose of being trafficked for his blood in East Africa, and was saved before he died. We followed his journey with the incredible doctors and nurses who gave him his best chance to walk again.
“This is a miracle that I don’t even have words for other than God loves His children so much more than any of us ever could.” – Jessica Mass, O.U.R. Director of Aftercare
Yesterday, this brave little boy had a life-changing surgery here in the U.S.“Andrew’s surgery today could not have gone better! We think he’ll walk and even run again!!”
Thank you for everyone’s love and support. We sent a text blast requesting good thoughts and prayers yesterday morning. Want to be the first to know when survivors and O.U.R. operators need your help? Text “OURPRAYERS” to 75004.
The day after his surgery, Andrew was adamant about wanting to walk again! Here he is during his first physical therapy session shortly after his surgery. We love seeing his persistence and confidence in his healing.
Andrew went down a waterslide for the first time in his life! He says it’s a day he’ll never forget.
Please keep Andrew’s social worker, Harriet, in your thoughts and prayers. She accompanied him here to the U.S. for his surgery, and because of the travel restrictions due to COVID-19, she did not anticipate being here for so many months. While she is staying with friends of O.U.R., we have provided her with a shopping trip to buy her new clothes and have also provided extensive dental work. Her travel arrangements continue to change and are complicated, we hope things will be sorted out soon for her!
“Andrew” recently started middle school and is loving it! He has already made many friends, and his bright smile continues to bring joy to the kids around him at school. Because he was kidnapped and attacked at a young age, he is currently behind in school. However, his teachers think he will catch up to his peers very fast! We are so inspired by Andrew’s perseverance.
Recently, Andrew had the opportunity to take horse riding lessons, which were graciously donated and arranged by the Metropolitan Equestrian Team (MET). O.U.R. collaborates with NGOs all around the nation to help serve children in the best way possible. We are excited to share more in the future about our partnership with MET and how we have been collaborating to develop an equine therapy program for survivors.
While learning to ride the horse, Andrew’s infectious smile brightened the room around him. We are so inspired by his strength and hope for the future! Watch the full video below: