Muhumuza is 38 years old and a single father of four from Uganda. His children are not in school because he is unable to pay for their education. He works as a casual laborer picking tea in a tea plantation. He has a small piece of land where he cultivates food for his children.
Two years ago, Muhumuza developed an epigastric hernia, which is a protrusion of tissue in the upper abdomen. He feels pain mostly after meals and is unable to lift heavy items. Sometimes he has difficulty breathing. He had never reported his condition to a hospital because of lack of money.
Muhumuza was advised to come to Holy Family Virika Hospital, a Watsi care center, by his friend who had surgery (hernia repair) through the Watsi program. If not treated, the hernia could become stuck leading to damage to the tissue and become more painful.
$249 will cover the costs of the surgery and care Muhumuza needs. After surgery, he plans to work hard so that he can get money and put his children in school.