Father Odong Ambrose holding his son Raphael after full recovery at St. John XXIII Hospital Aber.

Raphael’s Journey from Crisis to Recovery

When one-year-old Acol Raphael fell seriously ill in December 2024, his father, Odong Ambrose, was overwhelmed with worry. Having raised Raphael alone after his mother left when he was just two weeks old, Ambrose had done everything he could to provide for his son. But when work commitments required him to entrust Raphael to his grandmother’s care, an unexpected health crisis struck.

On December 6, 2024, Raphael developed severe diarrhea, vomiting, and a high fever. Alarmed, his grandmother immediately called Ambrose, who rushed home and brought him to our facility.

A Life-Changing Intervention

Upon admission, Raphael was diagnosed with severe acute malnutrition and vitamin D deficiency, conditions that had weakened his little body. The medical team swiftly stepped in, providing specialized nutritional support and intensive care.

For 20 days, doctors and nurses closely monitored his progress. His father, though anxious, found comfort in the compassionate care his son received. Slowly but surely, Raphael’s strength returned—his appetite improved, his energy levels increased, and his frail body began to recover.

A Transformation Worth Celebrating

By December 26, 2024, Raphael was discharged, a much healthier and stronger child. Over the following two months, he returned for four follow-up visits, with the final check-up on February 26, 2025, confirming his full recovery.

  • No more fever, diarrhea, or vomiting
  • Increased strength, able to stand and climb
  • A playful, happy child once again

A Father’s Gratitude and a Lesson for All Parents

“I don’t have enough words to thank the doctors, nurses, and nutritionists who took care of my son. They treated him like their own, reassuring me even in my worst moments. If not for their dedication, I don’t know what would have happened to Raphael. May God bless them abundantly.”Odong Ambrose (Acol Raphael Father)

Raphael’s story is a powerful reminder of how timely intervention and quality healthcare can save lives. At St. John XXIII Hospital Aber, we remain committed to providing care that transforms lives and restores hope to families.