Ocer Walter’s Story
A Journey of Hope, Healing, and Opportunity
Date of Visit: February 24, 2025
Location: Ajobi Village, Ocoko Ber Parish, Adwir Sub County, Ajuri County, Alebtong District, Uganda
When the Denny Wilford Foundation team arrived at the home of Ocer Walter in Ajobi Village, they were met with warmth and heartfelt gratitude. Walter’s father, Awany Charles, and his wife, Grace Awany, welcomed the visitors with open arms, expressing their deep appreciation for the support that has transformed their son’s life.
Local council chairperson Mr. Bua Patrick Leo also greeted the team, assuring everyone of their safety and extending his gratitude for the ongoing support being provided to members of his community.
A Life Transformed by Care and Opportunity
Ocer Walter
Walter’s journey with the Freidis Rehabilitation and Disable Centre (FRDC) began in 2007 when he was admitted for treatment of cerebral palsy (hemiplegia spastic). While the standard care duration at FRDC is three months, Walter’s condition required extended treatment. He received six months of specialized care, from September 2007 until his discharge in March 2008.
Following his rehabilitation, Walter’s progress was remarkable. He enrolled at Ajobi Primary School, where he sat for and successfully passed his Primary Leaving Examination. With continued support, he went on to attend Nancy for the Deaf Secondary School, where he completed his Ordinary Level studies.
The Power of Support: How the Denny Wilford Foundation Helped
Through the partnership between FRDC and the Denny Wilford Foundation, Walter received vital resources that made his education and daily life possible. These included:
Special care treatment
A wheelchair
Clothing and soap
Scholastic materials
Financial support for school fees, requirements, and food
This holistic support enabled Walter not only to continue his education, but to build a vision for his future.
A New Dream: Empowering Others Through Technology
Walter's drive didn’t stop at education. He completed computer training at Friendly Book Shop in Alebtong Town, and even purchased his own laptop. However, the lack of electricity in his home village has made it impossible for him to use it regularly.
Walter now dreams of opening a computer center in a nearby trading center with electricity—an initiative that would help support his family while giving back to the community. He humbly requests assistance from Denny and Caralee to help make relocation possible, so he can turn this dream into reality.
Impact Beyond One Life
Walter’s story is just one among many. On the same day, the Denny Wilford Foundation and FRDC team delivered wheelchairs, scholastic supplies, basic needs, and food to other individuals in the area, including:
Eling Mabin, Alor Enricko, Omara Desmond, Anyap Elvis, Ejem Lajarus, Abeja Vivian, Akello Emmanuel, Ocero Siver, Ario Cyril, Adur Joan, Apelo Brian, Awanga Brian, Awio Katorine, Acwera John, Acio Margret, Adongo Catherine, and Acio Jannet.
Local leaders expressed heartfelt thanks for the support but also raised an urgent request: the need for more wheelchairs, especially as disabled individuals face increased hardship during the rainy season when mobility becomes even more difficult.
A Father’s Gratitude
Walter’s father, Awany Charles, reflected on how far his son has come since FRDC took him in at just four years old. He expressed deep appreciation to Denny and Caralee, crediting their support for Walter’s ability to attend school, live independently, and now build a life with his wife.
He also voiced a passionate plea: that support continues not just for Walter, but for all children with disabilities in their region—children who are often left out of opportunities for education, medical care, and community inclusion.
“Children with disabilities go through so much,” Awany said. “They are often unable to farm, denied care at hospitals, and are not treated equally in schools or their communities. But thanks to the support from FRDC and the Denny Wilford Foundation, my son has hope, and so do we.”
Walter’s story is a testament to what’s possible when compassion, resources, and opportunity come together. And yet, there are many more children like Walter who still wait for a chance.
If you’d like to help children like Walter build a future full of dignity and purpose, donate today.
