Just a random pic

Parsley and I
Every one back home wanted me to do ONE thing in regards to my trip to Africa. Bring home an African baby. Even though I wasn't ever actually going to do it, I am really upset that the Tanzanian government requires prospective parents to maintain residency in Tanzania for 18 months. The main problem is that most people looking to adopt will pass over Tanzania in favour of a country where the process doesn't require a move. The baby in the pic, Parsley, isn't actually a baby. He looks about 9 months old, but is actually 22 months. He is HIV positive and hasn't grown since arriving at the Kili Kids orphanage in November, despite his very healthy appitite. And to top it off, he has been sick and hospitalized for a few weeks now. Its hard to beleive that there is ANY justice in the world when you're holding an innocent baby that has one of the world's most elusive diseases. The images of his little body fighting for his life will stay in my memory forever.

AC

PS, I need to thank Gabi immensely for taking such an adorable picture of Parsley and I. Thanks Gabi!