Felix arrived in Amaudo during the rainy season in 2013. He had been planning to study mechanical engineering after finishing school when he became ill. Amaudo Itumbauzo staff found him wandering the streets of Aba. He was filthy, confused and scared. At first he was worried about getting into the vehicle and was unsure when staff told him that they wanted to take him to a safe place where he would be given food and shelter, care and support. Finally the skilled staff persuaded him to come to Amaudo and see for himself. They promised him that there are no locked gates at Amaudo and he was free to leave at any time.

When he arrived at Amaudo 1 a team of staff were waiting with clean clothes, soap and water and a meal. A simple room for him had been prepared with a freshly made bed, a small cupboard and a mosquito net. He was given a supply of toiletries and some basic provisions. A house parent was assigned to support him.

Over the first few days he was encouraged to participate in daily life. Meals, chapel, workshop, daily chores around the centre, he was gently persuaded to join in. Staff observed his behaviour and gradually a treatment plan was drawn up with the on site Community Psychiatric Nurse.

After only a short while on treatment, improvements in his mental health became apparent. As he started to recover he was able to tell staff about his village and family, where he had come from and where he would like to return one day. Staff were able to trace his mother and siblings living in a village called Orun, who were astonished to learn that he was recovering and being taken care of by Amaudo.

Only a few months on, Felix, was now an active member of the community. He enthusiastically took part in chapel and farming activities. He learnt barbing in Amaudo which he said he will be able to do whilst pursuing his dream of becoming an engineer. After he had a successful month living at home and returned to Amaudo to prepare for his discharge ceremony.

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