In today’s fast-paced world, the importance of youth involvement in visiting the sick in hospitals cannot be overstated. Youth have a unique ability to bring joy, comfort, and hope to those in need. By visiting the sick, they not only provide companionship and support but also contribute to the overall healing process of the patient. In this article, we will share the experiences of Kayone youth who touched lives of people while visiting the sick in Katakwi Main Hospital.
First and foremost, it’s important to note that, youth visiting the sick in hospitals play a crucial role in providing emotional support to patients. Illness can be a lonely and isolating experience, and having someone to talk to and share their thoughts and feelings with can greatly improve the patient’s mental well-being. Kayone Youths, with their energy and enthusiasm, do lift the spirits of patients and help them feel less alone during their time of need. They use different ways and styles of communication because some of them don’t speak Ateso but they do all their best to speak to a sick person, even when it demands to literally use sign language. When we visit the sick, the aim is to make sure at least, a person smiles a bit despite their suffering; to remind the person that there is still hope.
Additionally, in their diversity, youth bring a sense of normalcy and joy to the hospital environment. Katakwi Hospital, just like many other hospitals oftentimes, is lonely place, but the presence of young visitors does brighten up the atmosphere and bring smiles to the faces of both patients and staff. Off course, we cannot rule out the how some youths feel inspired to embrace medical profession. Many youths came out changed, others come out with resolutions of how to behave, others come out with determination about their future.
It’s worth mentioning that, when we visit the sick in hospital, we also carry some few stuffs to assist the caretakers of the sick or even the sick themselves. We go along with soap, salt, sugar, juice, beans, maize flour (pocho) and rice. The quantities are not many, however, the little we share is always appreciated because some patients leave hospitals without getting even one visitor. Our presence gives hope and joy to most patients. Though in some other instances, some visitors are not welcoming. We thank all those who sacrifice and contribute to purchase all the items used while visiting the sick.
In conclusion, the role of Kayone youth in visiting the sick in hospital is a vital one that should not be underestimated. Through their compassion, empathy, and willingness to help, youth bring comfort, joy, and hope to those who are facing illness and adversity. By actively participating in such acts of kindness, youth not only make a positive impact on the lives of others but also develop important skills such as empathy, communication, and resilience. We believe that, it is through these meaningful interactions that youth can truly make a difference in the world and contribute to a more compassionate and caring society.
Reivilo Damir
