Patrick Dreams of Becoming a Doctor!

Fourteen-year-old Patrick recalled what life was like in the Yumbani Community before his community’s well was installed last year.

Before the Well's Implementation

“Before this project was completed, getting water was hard. I had to walk for a long time to reach to river Miu. I often felt tired and thirsty, especially on hot days. It was difficult for me and my family and other children whom we trekked together for water,” shared Patrick.

"I could walk all the way to the river with other children and come home very late and tired. At times, my legs could [buckle], have boils, or even swell because of the long, dusty road to the river," he continued.

The previous water source.

Since the Well's Implementation

Collecting water is now more convenient and less burdensome for him and the other community members in Yumbani.

“Living with clean water is amazing! I love that I can drink it whenever I'm thirsty and not worry about getting sick. It's also great for taking baths and washing my hands to stay clean and healthy. Furthermore, clean water helps our plants grow, so we have yummy fruits and vegetables to eat. I'm so grateful for clean water!” said Patrick.

Having ready access to water from the well has made a difference for Patrick, allowing him to worry less and enjoy his childhood more.

"I am no longer worried about fetching water as my parents now can easily send me to get water from the shallow well. Having water near me has saved me a lot of time, and now I can read and play. Not only has it saved me time and energy, but it has also brought [me] a sense of security. I no longer worry about encountering dangerous animals or strangers along the way," said Patrick.

"The water source is just cool. The birds sing for me as I fetch water here," continued Patrick.

Now that Patrick doesn't have to labor intensively and worry about collecting water, he has the energy to pour into dreaming about the future.

"I dream of becoming a doctor," concluded Patrick.