This article is about the courage and resilience of two young people supported by Busega Scotland.

First, there is Shida. She is 9 years old and arrived at Mayega Children’s Centre earlier this year with extremely limited sight. Second, there is Monica. A couple of months ago, our Mayega graduate and member of the Moving-on Project, had a very serious accident while cooking. She was burnt and scalded. Both young people have had spells in hospital.

Shida has just returned to Mayega after her second 1000 mile round trip to the Kilimanjaro Medical Centre. This resulted in the third operation on her most damaged eye – she was in the operating theatre for 3.5 hours. Initial indications are that her distance vision has improved. She will go back in October for a check-up and hopefully treatment on the other eye.

Monica was hospitalised in Mwanza for her treatment, on what were very painful injuries. She is a second year student at Nyakato College, studying domestic electrical installation. She has recently returned to her studies but problems with one of her wounds has necessitated a further hospital visit.

Both girls are incredibly brave.

The cost of Shida’s very specialist treatment, travel and subsistence is likely to exceed £1500 – an expense that we had not anticipated. Busega Scotland’s fundraising events up to Christmas will focus on Shida but if any supporter wants to make a personal contribution then this can be done through the website.