Samson has been with us since 2004 when he was left at the Sovanapoom Centre.  At that time he was about the size of a normal two year old child.  It was only from his cognitive actions that it seemed apparent he was probably about 4 years old, possibly older.  Samson was extremely malnourished; he had a large swollen tummy and tiny stick-like limbs.  His head constantly hung down from his lack of strength. His skin was covered in sores and when he lifted his head you could see right inside him through a gaping hole in his neck where his skin had rotted from infection.  

Samson’s entire family had died of AIDs, this small child was the only survivor and he had been on his own for some months.  Pastor John asked people in the village what his name was but nobody knew him.  The little boy had such a strong determination on his face, he never spoke a word, never smiled, never laughed, never cried.  The only emotion you ever saw from him was a stubborn resolve and strength to survive.  So he was named Samson, the strong man.  

Just cleaning his little body up and getting it somewhere near looking clean took about six months, you wouldn't believe how dirt can be so ingrown in a person like that.  During this time we prayed for Samson, loved him and fed him.  In the beginning Samson would only eat a small amount of rice and he refused to eat any vegetables or meat.  Although he had been so deprived of food and nourishment, he had gone far past being hungry and now had to be forced to eat. 

Along with some good food going in, we gave Samson worming medicine to get rid of the parasites from his body.  He had tapeworm and every other worm you that you could think of growing inside his little body.  We've seen intestinal worms come out of children in these circumstances by the handful.  

Along with his obvious physical condition, Samson was diagnosed with HIV. 

Although it seemed that the world was against him living, he never gave up.  Growing stronger every day as he begn eating what was put in front of him, vegetables, meat, eggs, rice, noodles. Very slowly at first; for years he was always the last person left at the dinner table, but his condition began to improve and he became stronger and stronger.

Samson also started learning too.  As soon as Samson could talk and learn to smile and laugh he learned about faith.  He said from very early days that “Jesus has healed me”.  He even offered to pray for the doctors who were treating him in the hospital in the city. 

Around Christmas 2005 we received confirmation that Samson’s blood was now normal – no more HIV.  This is a real miracle!

Samson is now about 10 years old and he is a very active and clever boy.  He loves climbing, running and playing games with the other children.  He also learns very well, he is in the advanced English class with many of the students who are much older than him.  For a boy who's had such a rough start in life this is truly amazing and definitely part of the miracle he received with his healing.  

Samson is a mighty man of faith and has a very powerful future.  He’s a young man with strong character who will never give up.