This story isn't just Dokeolem's story it is the story of Fil Martino a Televison reporter/producer from Canada. Having traveled to Uganda to see the work of Stouffville-based Christian Blind Mission International first hand, Fil was so impressed with what she saw and was so moved by one little boy named Dokolem, that she decided to make her birthday party not about her, but “all about a boy”. In August, Fil organized a Silent Auction and Dance as a fundraiser for CBMI’s enable program.

“Just a few days into my trip [to Uganda] I met an unforgettable little boy. Two-year-old Dokolem Msamiru was sitting on the ground outside Kumi Hospital, which is a CBMI-supported project in Uganda. My heart went out to him when I realized he couldn’t get around on his own because he was wearing casts on both legs.  Dokolem had undergone surgery to correct bilateral clubfeet. Despite his condition, he smiled and shook my hand and that’s when I knew he would be okay.

“That is also when I realized that donations made by Canadians through CBMI were truly changing lives.

This fundraiser is for Dokolem so that he can get the post-surgery treatment he needs to walk on his own one day.  It is also for other poverty stricken children like him who need orthopedic treatment, however cannot afford the costs. Proceeds from “ALL ABOUT A BOY” will go to CBMI Canada’s Enable program.  It is through this initiative that Canadians can sponsor children’s medical treatment in countries like Uganda and Malawi.”

As a result of her wonderful efforts, Fil and her guests raised enough money, not just to sponsor Dokolem’s surgery and follow-up care, but to sponsor 16 enable children! Thanks to Fil, 16 children have been given ability, hope and a future!