It is said that in life you meet that one person who can change your life and most times you do not even know or realize it until later on. I met my Smiling Angel in 2009 at Uganda Christian University. We quickly became friends even though we were pursuing different study courses. We had the same likes, hobbies and even friends. Two years down the road, I had met all her family members and even visited her home for Christmas holidays. Unfortunately all this did not last.
The late Miss Carol Atuhirwe was diagnosed with Throat Cancer in 2011 during her final year at University. This news was hard for all of us to hear and accept but ultimately it was one we had to live with. The situation only got worse when she was also diagnosed with Lung Cancer over the years. Carol battled through the pain, surgeries, disappointing test results, loss of hair, weight loss and sleepless nights with a Smile. On this uncertain journey of seven years we were right there with her. Even when it all seemed impossible , she still pushed on with a smile, urging all of us to stay strong and believing that the battle with cancer can be won. Later on when she was referred to India for further treatment, I volunteered to be her Caretaker. This was a time she moved all individuals nationally and internationally to donate to her Save Carol Campaign which in the end ultimately enabled her to travel to India for Treatment. Unfortunately she passed on a year later in India on 1st June 2017.
There is always that turning point where you figure out what to do in life and discover your passion. You might be inspired by a situation, a place or a person. In my case Iwas inspired by the Late Miss Carol Atuhirwe, her situation, story , life and battle with Cancer. I am passionate about helping other people in unfortunate situations and giving them a helping hand. Since Miss Carol's passing , I have been at the forefront of nurturing an Organisation called Carol Atuhirwe Cancer Foundation ( CACF) geared towards the fight against cancer. CACF is an initiative in Miss Carol's memory and in the memory of all those gone before and after her as a result of Cancer. We hope to inspire the people in my community, my country and the world to join us in the global fight against cancer. As an Executive Director of CACF, I have been able to take part in various conferences where i have been recently inaugurated as a Global Goals Action Ambassador and my message as an ambassador is working together to achieve the sustainable development goals. I am also a Country Director for the Global Youth Network aimed at addressing the challenges of the Youth in Uganda.
All these responsibilities and experiences have shaped me into the person I am today. I strive to be a better human being who can contribute more to my community, country and the world. I keep being reminded of you through my work, life and Inspirations my smiling Angel. Keep Smiling in Heaven! Holding Hands Together Against Cancer!