From Kenya to my arm: The story of Dololo

Every year, I embark on a life-changing journey to Nakuru, Kenya, with African Adventures and Derby County Community Trust. In one of the poorest suburbs, we build and renovate school classrooms, teach, and play with the incredible Kenyan children. It’s a trip filled with hard work and unforgettable moments.

In 2019, on our way back to the airport after another rewarding trip, we visited the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust. That day, my twin boys, Harry and Oliver, gave me an early Father’s Day surprise: they had adopted an orphaned elephant named Dololo for me. Their choice was deeply meaningful—not just because I adore elephants, but because it reminded me of my much missed mother. 

As fate would have it, we then found out that he was rescued on their birthday the previous year.

Dololo’s story is heartbreaking but inspiring. In the early hours of 9 September 2018, he was discovered struggling in the middle of a dam. He had been submerged for hours, with only his trunk raised to breathe. Rescuers transported him by helicopter to the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust in Nairobi, where he received lifesaving care. Weak, riddled with worms and parasites, and at risk of pneumonia, Dololo slowly began his recovery. Thanks to round-the-clock attention, he gained strength and was soon exploring the park with other rescued elephants.

For me, Dololo represents more than just resilience. He’s a symbol of connection. My love for elephants began with my mum, who adored them too. She passed away from ovarian cancer in 2005, never having the chance to meet my twins, my wife Hayley, or my eldest son Reece, which truly breaks my heart. But through Dololo, I feel like there’s a link between her and my boys. To honour this connection, I got Dololo tattooed on my arm.

The tattoo, crafted by the brilliant CJ Stokes at Pictures of Lily, is truly a masterpiece. Earlier this year, CJ also tattooed a lion on my arm from a photo I took on safari. These tattoos aren’t just art—they’re stories etched into my skin, reminders of the incredible experiences and people who have shaped my life.

In May 2025, I’ll return to Nakuru for another humanitarian trip, and I need to fundraise over £2,500 to make it happen. If you’d like to support this journey, please consider donating at https://tinyurl.com/lnrik25

If you’re feeling inspired to join the adventure, there’s an opportunity for you too! Visit https://www.derbycountycommunitytrust.com/fundraising-and-events/rams-kenya for details on volunteering in Kenya.

For a closer look at my past trips and their impact, check out https://formentotalk.co.uk/fmttken/  

Dololo’s story is one of hope and healing, and I’m proud to carry a piece of it with me—both in my heart and now on my arm.