Watching Sama learn sign language has been a special part of my Peace Corps service. Some of my happiest days in The Gambia have been afternoons spent visiting his new school to find him smiling and surrounded by new friends.
Sama couldn’t take his eyes off the kids. I couldn’t take my eyes off Sama. Transfixed in a stare that exuded wonder, the look on his face spoke more than words could ever say. Unable to hear or speak, Sama grabbed my arm and pointed toward the students; he cupped his hands over his ears, then patted his chest. It was the first time the 13-year-old had met anyone else just like him.
Sama, a deaf boy in my village, quickly stole my heart. I would love more than anything to give him a chance at a future other than gathering wood. Please help me send him to the deaf school so he can get an education.
