Nyakaisiki, a 47-year-old woman, lives with her seven children in Uganda. Our medical partner, African Mission Healthcare Foundation (AMHF), tells us that the single mother is determined to look after her family and support her children’s education.
Seven years ago, Nyakaisiki began experiencing abdominal pain due to an umbilical hernia. This condition causes a protrusion to occur around the belly button–leading to regular discomfort, especially while eating. Without intervention, Nyakaisiki faces the risk of intestinal obstruction.
To support her children, Nyakaisiki sells surplus vegetables from her garden–producing a very modest income. However, her earnings alone are not enough to afford the cost of her treatment.
For $220, Nyakaisiki will receive a hernia repair. During this operation, her hernia will be carefully placed back in its proper position. Afterwards, Nyakaisiki will no longer be at risk of intestinal obstruction.
“We expect after a hernia repair, Nyakaisiki will recover fully,” AMHF says. “Nyakaisiki will have an improved quality of life. She will be able to farm and raise her children.”