From Tragedy to Triumph: Lufuno’s Story
When Lufuno was two years old, her mother committed suicide. After she spent a few years in the foster care system, social services contacted Dayspring Children’s Village, which is supported in part by Orphan’s Promise.
Auntie Gao explained, “Social services begged us to take her in. My class was already full, but when I saw Lufuno, I loved her so much in my heart that we made room for her.”
When Lufuno first learned how to read and write, her teacher noticed she formed her words differently. “It’s the first time I saw a child write like that, from right to left. I thought maybe she was dyslexic. She turned every letter, the ‘u’ would become an ‘n,’ and ‘f’ started down going up,” said Auntie Gao.
Her teacher realized it was not dyslexia, but childhood trauma that was holding Lufuno back. Auntie Gao said, “At first, she cried all the time. She kept to herself, not wanting to play with the other kids. I told myself that with God nothing is impossible. Teachers here are taught how to help kids who went through trauma. After school, I spent time with her and prayed with her. I told her Jesus loves her and reassured her that I love her. We played together and then I worked with her on her writing.”
Lufuno said, “I enjoy when she teaches me. Before I came here I couldn’t read or write, but God helped me and now I can. I feel like I am a smart girl.”
Auntie Gao said, “We thank God for her transformation. She is one of the best writers in my class and her writing is so beautiful. Now she is filled with joy, always smiling. Seeing the changes in her is a great joy to me.”
“I like to play with my friends and to read and learn,” said Lufuno. “I believe that Jesus loves me, and takes care of me, and even helps me with my homework. My friends and I do homework together. When I am able to help them, it makes me happy.”
Auntie Gao said, “To everyone who gives to Orphan’s Promise, ‘Thank you. The help you give goes a long way. Many children from troubled backgrounds come here to heal, and later go on to university. May the Lord reward you and give you the strength to continue the wonderful work you are doing.’”
