As a child, Dr Steven van de Vijver dreamt of leaving The Netherlands for Africa. So at the first opportunity, he signed on with Médecins Sans Frontières. His mission: relief work in the Democratic Republic of Congo, a country ravaged by violence.

Daily life in Africa defied many of Van de Vijver's expectations. His days were filled with medical emergencies, nerve-racking operations, confrontations with local medicine men - and black magic.

Despite these challenges, or because of them, the author grew while in Africa. His dedication, passion for people - and for football - brought him intense joy amidst the constant threat of war.