During a recent trip to Nairobi, I found myself with a morning to spare. This day, coincidentally, marked the second anniversary of my uncle’s passing—a day of reflection and remembrance. Faced with the choice of visiting the Cerebral Palsy (CP) unit or reconnecting with lifelong friends I hadn’t seen in years; my head was torn. Ultimately, my heart led me to the CP unit, a decision I am profoundly grateful for.

Upon arriving at the CP unit, I was warmly welcomed by the staff and the children. The excitement and emotions from the moment I set foot into the CP unit grounds can only be best described as happy, jovial, and full of happiness. The local live music band was clearly entertaining the crowds (yes, I was fashionably late) inside a room full of colour, measuring about 15m x 5m wide. The excitement was building, and as I set foot into the room, I was overcome with immediate emotion, smiles, love, and affection.

I could see other visitors dancing away with the young children and their families, unable to differentiate who was who. After a few minutes of just soaking in what was in front of me, I decided to put on my dancing shoes and join in. Best thing I did! For about 1.5 hours, I, together with everyone else, just engaged with the young people and their families, dancing, sweating in the heat, being happy, and just feeling humbled.

Then came the song that brought the young people to life. Although I don’t remember the exact words, I know it had in them “I am STRONG,” “I have LOVE,” “I can FLY.” These words, coupled with some catchy African music, million-dollar smiles and excitement, created a memory that will be etched in my mind for the rest of my life.

After many failed attempts to withhold my own emotion, I was then surprised to hear Daniel, the manager of the CP unit, mention me personally for the work I have been doing on behalf of SPS Training to do to support them over the past 2 years. He then asked me to speak to the whole group. For a man of many words who thrives in pressure situations, I was, for the first time since having to make a speech on my wedding day, SPEECHLESS, overcome with emotion, and just overwhelmed with the gratitude shown. I am sure there is a recording of my speech flying about, but there wasn’t much more said that hasn’t already been written.
After a couple of other speeches, we went on to share lunch with them. As if this was not enough, I was impressed by the celebrity-like recognition provided by the parents who wanted pictures and time from me. I never do the work that I do for external recognition and always measure it by tangible impacts, but on this occasion, I would be lying if I didn’t quite enjoy my 15 minutes of fame.

In conclusion, my visit to the Cerebral Palsy unit in Nairobi was an enriching experience. It was a day filled with emotion, reflection, and newfound connections. I am grateful for the opportunity to have spent time with such incredible individuals and reenergised me to continue my work with Lonsdale School in Stevenage to try and improve the overall education, resources, and support for the Cerebral Palsy Unit in Nairobi.

This visit has reinforced my belief in the power of compassion and the importance of supporting those in need….. most importantly, everyone should be able to demonstrate the courage and resilience to cope with the challenges that life may throw to you……. and remember, together, WE ARE STRONG, WE SHOULD SHARE LOVE, AND WE CAN ALL FLY