As we all rang in the New Year of 2021, with hopes for a “better year,” I could not but think in any “normal time” I would be preparing for my annual travels to Uganda to assist with the partnership between Center for Hospice Care (CHC) and the Palliative Care Association of Uganda (PCAU). A focus of my time is always with the Road to Hope program for child caregivers that PCAU and CHC support. Unfortunately, like everyone else’s best laid plans, the pandemic made that impossible. So, there were no reunions this January with so many wonderful people I have come to know as friends and no opportunity to see the many children I have watched grow up in the Road to Hope program. My visit this year is a virtual one, trying to stay connected with my Ugandan family via email, calls, letters, or an occasional Zoom call. I reflect on all that I miss by not being there.

For those who have had the opportunity to visit Uganda and meet the PCAU staff and the incredible children in the Road to Hope program, you may understand why it is so disappointing not to be able to visit. Uganda is a beautiful country whose people are gracious and welcoming. Nowhere is this better personified than in those who work for PCAU and welcome me so warmly on each visit. To see their smiles and feel their embraces energizes me for the weeks ahead. Over the years, I have developed such an appreciation of their hard work and dedication in bringing services to so many who otherwise would endure suffering. They are truly an inspiration in their compassion and their work, especially during this pandemic when providing services is even more challenging. Their efforts would amaze you!

I miss spending time with Rose, the former PCAU country director, and her family who have become family to me. We would be recounting the success of our partnership and accomplishments of PCAU. I feel badly I cannot sit in on the many meetings with Mark, PCAU’s current country director, and the staff to listen to their plans and aspirations for the year ahead or go on visits to surrounding areas to spread the message of palliative care. Those of you who have traveled the roads in Uganda know that these visits can be long and tiring, but upon returning, you always feel that something positive was accomplished in ways small or large. It is a loss not to hear the stories of “new” friends and to experience all that makes Uganda – and PCAU – special.

Of course, the Road to Hope program is dear to my heart, and if there is one part of my journey that I truly looked forward to each year – and greatly miss this year – it is seeing the many children served by the program and to hear their many collective experiences as they grow up. I am always amazed from year to year how much they grow, mature, and while many face challenges that are not easily resolved, they continue to inspire through their perseverance, achievements, and gratitude for those who have helped them, especially their U.S. sponsors. Over the years my visits coincided with the Children’s Camp for all the children or the Empowerment Retreat for the older children. These camps offer support and validation for the children. They are encouraged in ways of leadership and to keep their dreams alive for a better life ahead. How I miss the privilege to be part of their discussions, to laugh with them and at times, to cry with them.