In 2001, Lazarus came from the mental hospital in Accra to the Hand in Hand community. At that time, he was in bad shape. He did not talk, did not make any eye contact and was sitting all day by himself, digging his fingers in the soil. He has a strange walk, which might be caused by a long period of inactivity, maybe because he had been locked up in a room. Possibly it is a neurological disorder.
Lazarus is still quiet and wants to be alone. He still roots up the earth, if possible while sitting in the sun and often looks dirty. The best way to make contact with him is by clapping your hands, since this makes him happy. Lazarus does hear, but he does not pay attention to what is said.
Lazarus likes to sit in the pool, of course always on his own. He mostly walks along the edge of the pool while continuously splashing water across the edge.
Of late and because of the special care of a volunteer Lazarus has become more approachable and…he has become fat! The little boy who never touched food suddenly under the care of that volunteer started eating as if he were famished. Soon other changes followed. He can come running towards you though at the last moment he makes a quick sidestep and stops as if he realizes how dangerously near he gets to people! But he likes it and makes eye contact and sometimes can give a shout from sheer joy!