Kelethensio is is a 24-year-old young man from Uganda. He recently completed his studies, and actively seeking employment. Kelethensio is the last born child in his family, and lives with his mother following the loss of his father. He hopes to become self-reliant, secure employment, and one day provide for the mother who has sacrificed so much to educate him and his siblings. Meanwhile, he contributes to the household through grazing the family’s small livestock, and participating in small-scale farming.
About a year ago, Kelethensio began to experience troubling symptoms, including a painless swelling on the front of his neck that has gradually increased in size over the past year. The swelling has significantly affected his self-confidence, emotional wellbeing, and interactions with his peers, causing him to become withdrawn and, at times, neglect himself because of concerns about his appearance. Kelethensio had never used medication to treat the swelling. After learning from a village mate who had received successful treatment at Rushoroza Hospital, he decided to seek medical attention there. He saved what little he could from casual work to pay for transport and travelled approximately two hours by public transport. Upon arrival at the hospital, he was assessed, and underwent the necessary investigations.
Kelethensio has been diagnosed with goitre, an enlargement of the thyroid gland. He needs surgery to prevent his symptoms from getting worse. Our medical partner, African Mission Healthcare, is helping Kelethensio receive treatment. On September 1st, he is scheduled to undergo a thyroidectomy, where surgeons will remove all or part of his thyroid gland. This procedure will cost $333, and he and his family need help raising the funds.
Kelethensio says, “I am grateful that I came to Rushoroza Hospital and that the doctors have identified the cause of the swelling, and the treatment I need. However, I became very worried when I learned that I need an operation because I have just completed my studies and I am still unemployed. I humbly appeal to the donors to support me, so that I can receive the surgery I need. Your assistance would relieve me from the physical and emotional burden this swelling has caused me and would also spare my elderly mother from a financial burden she cannot manage. I dream of becoming a self-reliant man, finding work, and supporting my mother who has sacrificed so much for me. May God richly bless you for your kindness and generosity.”