3. Most days I must leave my children to fetch water many miles away. Sometimes it takes us all day.
4. In the evening, I return home to gather food from the garden and to cook supper over the fire.
5. Three days ago, my baby Malaika became ill. Now she has a fever and is very sick. I must find a doctor.
6. Since, my husband is away finding work in the city, I must travel alone and leave the other children at home.
7. We are going to walk to the other side of the mountain to the clinic. It will take me two days. I hope the weather is good.
8. I will bring some greens on my journey for my food. I will have to find water along the way.
9. I am thirsty now. The road is very hot and dry. Malaika has been crying all day.
10. I am tired after walking all day. Tonight I will sleep here. Tomorrow, I will finish my journey to the clinic. I pray that Malaika will live through the night.
11. I have finally arrived at the clinic. I wait here with the other women for six hours. Malaika's fever is very high now.
12. The nurse tells me that they have no doctor or medicines for Malaika. “But my baby is so sick. Please help us!”
13. She tells me that I must go to the hospital in Same at the base of the mountain - 30 kilometers away. I am afraid to go to a big town. I don't know anyone there and my children at home must be worried by now.
14. As I arrive at the hospital in the evening, I feel very hungry. I have not eaten or had water all day. Malaika has not nursed since yesterday.
15. When I arrive at the hospital, the ward nurse tells me that all of the beds are full. Some have three patients in one bed. I must wait. I am very tired. Malaika is sleeping now.