“Hi! My name is Lucas! I’m 18 years old and I’m currently a Form 4 student (U.S. equivalent to a Senior in High School) here at Valerye McMillan High School.

Growing up, life did not start very easily for me, but by God’s grace I was offered the opportunity to pursue an education in MANNA’s schools here in Mombasa, Kenya and it has changed my life. When I started school, I grew under the support of my teachers and classmates who helped mold me physically and spiritually. I knew to be in this position was a special opportunity, so I made sure I worked very hard and was prayerful in everything.”

“Kenya holds nation-wide testing every year and through God’s grace, I was able to place 1st in my county and 5th in the entire nation! This was a special moment for me because it was then that I realized my dreams really could come true. Ever since I was a young child, I’ve always had a passion to help people - especially people who don’t have access to medical care. Because of that, I have a very big dream. My dream is to become a neurosurgeon to help people heal for the glory of God.

I want to give back to my community, because they have given so much to me. They are like my family. They have given me the opportunity to get an education, to hear the good news of the gospel, and to pour in to me physically and spiritually. I want to be here to give the same opportunities I have received to others who like me, didn’t know this was possible.

Lucas: “Can I add something?”

Us: “Of course! This is your story, say whatever you want!”

“I would also like to appreciate the sponsors who have supported me and this school, and made my dreams come true. They have been like spiritual fathers and mothers for me. God has used them in a very special way - to help not just me, but other people like me who have big dreams but don’t know how they can achieve them. Thank you for giving me this opportunity to make steps towards becoming a neurosurgeon to help people across Kenya. I know that your generosity will be multiplied through the ministries and work God is calling me and my classmates to do here.”

“God’s grace is sufficient. That’s my story.”

Lucas is currently in the process of applying to medical school and will begin raising support to attend soon!