Adrian’s Legacy: How One Child Inspired a Community of Care

Adrian was born on November 9, 2017, in Mbale, Uganda, with Spina Bifida and Fetal Hydrocephalus (also known as Megacephalus). His condition required a cesarean section at birth. Sadly, his parents, particularly his father, struggled to accept his disability. As a result, Adrian spent much of his early childhood hidden inside the house, away from the outside world.

In time, both parents withdrew from their responsibilities. His father remarried and started a new family, and Adrian was left in the care of his maternal grandmother, Miss Robinah Nankoloto, on January 8, 2018. Robinah became his everything, his mother, his father, and his fiercest advocate. She provided Adrian with unconditional love, care, and support until his passing in March 2022.

Throughout his life, Adrian faced many medical challenges. He underwent two surgeries to reduce swelling in his head, and though the second surgery was less successful, he continued receiving care across multiple facilities in Mbale, Nsambya (for kidney complications), Katelemwa, and Mwanamugimu. Despite the medical hardships, Adrian’s spirit and resilience never waned.

Adrian’s journey eventually led him to Katanga, where a neighbor, also a Hope Speaks client, referred him to our team. He was soon enrolled in our medical support program, food distribution initiative, and began receiving home-based therapy. Over the course of a year, Adrian made visible progress, particularly in his speech and communication.

During one of these home visits, our team recognized the need to expand therapy services into the Bukasa, Namataba, and Kito communities. Thanks to Robinah’s warmth and willingness to connect us with others, we were able to reach more families. 

Inspired by Adrian’s growth, she became a passionate advocate, helping introduce our program to additional families in need. In 2023, this momentum led to the launch of new Hope Speaks therapy centers in Bukasa and Kito, allowing our team to serve more than 50 families.

Even after Adrian’s passing, his legacy lives on. Robinah continues to support Hope Speaks through community outreach and coordination efforts. Her dedication ensures that many more children now receive the care, support, and opportunities that Adrian once fought so hard for.

You Can Help Continue Adrian’s Legacy

If you’re looking for ways to support our charity work in Uganda, you can help spread the word of our mission, donate to our cause, or consider participating in the nonprofit volunteer opportunities that we offer.

Learn how to donate to Uganda and help support the change that Hope Speaks is making.