Sad news often comes from our friends in the DRC. Two weeks ago, we learned about the death of our school security guard. Jean Pierre, 27, died in his sleep, likely from complications of epilepsy. He leaves behind his wife and 2-month-old baby. What a joyous spirit he was — a friend to Congo Restoration since we opened our primary school in 2019.

Because of his epilepsy, everyone in the village thought he was “of the devil.” His mom asked us in 2017 to help him because the schools wouldn’t allow him to go. When we opened our primary school in 2019, we hired him.

Things changed after that. He was accepted by the community. He married last year and had a baby this summer. He loved our little school and his new little family so much. He was full of joy. The world is dimmer without him. May his memory be a blessing. Thank you Jean Pierre for all you gave our school and students. You will always be missed.