The board, staff and volunteers of Children of Uganda wish to extend our deepest condolences to our friends and family in Uganda who were touched by the extraordinary life and selfless commitment of Sister Rose Muyinza. Sister Rose passed away on October 6, 2009 - after bravely battling Alzheimer's disease and diabetes for several years. Often described as Uganda's Mother Teresa, Sister Rose was truly a remarkable woman whose lifelong mission of loving and serving orphaned children spanned nearly four decades.

Sister Rose started the Daughters of Charity (DOC) orphanages in 1971 initially to care for homeless girls. Over the years, she would open three orphanages throughout Uganda and ultimately cared for thousands of vulnerable boys and girls who had been devastated by war, extreme poverty and AIDS. As a result of receiving this critical care, these children grew up to lead successful and productive lives. Many became doctors, teachers and professionals - all giving back to their beloved homeland - because of the love, care and compassion they received from Sister Rose.

Children of Uganda proudly began our partnership with Sister Rose and DOC nearly 15 years ago. Together, we forged a bond that enabled us to care for children who may have otherwise fallen between the cracks in a society overwhelmed with the world's largest AIDS orphan population. The 600 children in our program today (in addition to all of the children we have served over the last 15 years) have all resided in one of the homes founded by Sister Rose.

This visionary woman served numerous roles in the lives of our children - mother, father, teacher, nurse, and perhaps the most powerful one - their personal champion. She inspired the children to live with joy, hope and a genuine sense of purpose. One child described growing up with Sister Rose best when he said, "In the orphanage, it was great to know I had a path to my future. Every day I woke up and had something to eat, had someone to show me love and to be friends with."

Thank you, Sister Rose for being a devoted friend to us all. Thank you for shining a light on an illuminating path that led thousands of children out of their darkest time. And lastly, thank you for showing us how one person can truly make an extraordinary difference. Your life's work and remarkable legacy will live on forever in the lives of the children touched by your loving service.

Sister Rose with Teddy Mata Aribiah ­ one of the children cared for by Children of Uganda and Sister Rose.

Sister Rose with our Board Vice-Chair Jan Smart and a local priest at the Philips House Commemoration ceremony. Philips House (named in honor of Ms. Smart¹s brother) serves the disabled population cared for Children of Uganda. Sister Rose held a special place in her heart for children living with disabilities.