“Health is like money. We never have a true idea of its value until we lose it.”
District Governor Dr. Anne Nkutu
December means different things to different people. For us in Rotary, it is the time to honor and promote disease prevention and treatment
efforts worldwide. I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to all the individual Rotary members and Rotary/Rotaract/Interact clubs engaged in various disease prevention and treatment initiatives in Uganda. Whether through donating health equipment, distributing mosquito nets, upgrading health facilities, conducting medical camps, raising awareness about polio, combating pollution, planting trees, or running against cancer, we are making strides towards healthier communities and empowering individuals to lead more productive lives.
But aside from re-affirming our commitment to healthy communities, this month also provides us with an opportunity to reflect on our own health. Remember, we can only give what we have. “Health is like money. We never have a true idea of its value until we lose it.” Just as people often realise the value of money when they don’t have enough to meet their needs, health is similarly taken for granted, until it begins to deteriorate. Many of us may overlook our health while we feel well, much like one might take a steady income for granted, until financial struggles arise.
efforts worldwide. I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to all the individual Rotary members and Rotary/Rotaract/Interact clubs engaged in various disease prevention and treatment initiatives in Uganda. Whether through donating health equipment, distributing mosquito nets, upgrading health facilities, conducting medical camps, raising awareness about polio, combating pollution, planting trees, or running against cancer, we are making strides towards healthier communities and empowering individuals to lead more productive lives.
But aside from re-affirming our commitment to healthy communities, this month also provides us with an opportunity to reflect on our own health. Remember, we can only give what we have. “Health is like money. We never have a true idea of its value until we lose it.” Just as people often realise the value of money when they don’t have enough to meet their needs, health is similarly taken for granted, until it begins to deteriorate. Many of us may overlook our health while we feel well, much like one might take a steady income for granted, until financial struggles arise.
But we must recognise that both health and money require ongoing investment and proactive management. Financial assets grow through wise investments, just as physical health improves through regular exercise, nutritious eating, and preventive care. Neglecting either can lead to deterioration.
Since July, a number of clubs have integrated physical fitness into their monthly schedules and I applaud you. Plans are underway to establish a Rotary Fitness Fellowship (Uganda Chapter), and it is my hope that this will provide our members with more regular opportunities to enhance our physical and mental wellbeing.But December is also that time of the year for celebration and thanksgiving. As the year draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the myriad of blessings that have enriched my life. It has been a year filled with growth, connection, and purpose. And I am thankful for the experiences that have shaped me and for the relationships that enrich my life. I have been immensely touched by the magic, love, support and hospitality accorded to me during, and outside of my club visits.
I am thankful for the chance to make a difference in the lives of others; and the opportunity to serve alongside like-minded individuals has been profoundly rewarding. Together, we have tackled challenges, celebrated victories, and made tangible impacts in our communities. The spirit of service that Rotary embodies has inspired me and reinforced the importance of giving back. And so, I would like to thank in a special way, all those who joined me to celebrate my birthday last month, by giving to the Rotary Foundation, in my honor. Your contributions yielded a significant amount, that will ultimately translate into the gifts of good health, education, safe water and peace for the less privileged across the world.
As we prepare for the Christmas break, I wish you and your families a blessed and joyous season. May we all continue to embrace gratitude as we move into the new year, finding joy in the blessings that surround us and the chance to make a difference in the lives of others.