My Journey of Pain, Hope, and Purpose

I am Sseruwu Derrick, founder of the ChildOld3 Foundation. My life has been shaped by tears, loss, and hardship, but it’s those struggles that molded me into the person I am today.

I was born in 1994, full of hope and dreams. But everything changed in 1998 when my father passed away, leaving my mother Mrs Nalubwama Deborah to raise me and my younger brother, Alex, on her own. Despite her tireless efforts, life was unforgiving. My brother Alex, born with sickle cell anemia, battled illness every day—and in January 2000, we lost him. His death shattered us. I still remember the overwhelming grief, the emptiness, and tears that seemed endless.

My mother, already struggling, fell into deep depression. Her health deteriorated, and in 2002, she passed away from HIV/AIDS. I was just a child, left all alone—scared, confused, and uncertain about what life held for me.

With no parents to care for me, I moved in with my step-aunt. But instead of finding safety, I faced cruelty. She made me feel unwanted and unloved, as if I was a burden. Desperate and broken, I eventually fled to the streets, where I begged for food and shelter. The nights were cold, my stomach empty, and hope felt like a distant dream.

Just when it seemed there was no escape from the darkness, a miracle appeared: Mr. James. A kind-hearted man, he took me into his home and gave me something I hadn’t felt in a long time—love and care. He provided food, clothes, and a safe place to call home. With his support, I went back to school, and slowly, I began to heal.

Looking back on my journey, I realized that God had kept me alive for a purpose. I knew I had to be the light for other children walking the same dark path I had once traveled. In 2018, I founded ChildOld3 Foundation to rescue vulnerable children from the streets—offering them love, care, education, and, most importantly, hope.

Every child deserves a chance to heal, grow, and dream. Through ChildOld3, I strive to honor the memory of my parents, my brother, and everyone who helped me along the way. My mission is simple: to make sure no child or elder ever feels abandoned or unloved—because every life matters.