Annociata is a 32-year-old mother of three from Uganda. She separated from her husband three years ago, and since then, she and her children have been living with her mother. Annociata and her mother depend mainly on small-scale farming for their livelihood. They grow crops for food and sell what modest surplus they can produce. Annociata also sells bananas in neighboring areas to supplement the family’s income. As it is just the two of them providing for their household, the responsibility of providing food and meeting the family’s basic needs rests heavily on Annociata and her elderly mother. Currently, she cannot send her children to school due to the family’s difficult financial situation.
Eight years ago, Annociata began to experience troubling symptoms, including swelling that started gradually but has progressively increased in size over the years. The swelling has affected Annociata emotionally and socially, making her feel isolated from others. She initially tried using local herbs recommended by friends and relatives, but these did not provide a lasting solution. As the swelling continued, Annociata began experiencing discomfort and episodes of breathlessness, particularly when speaking or coughing. The swelling has increasingly interfered with her daily activities and overall comfort.
When Annociata visited her nearest health facility in the past, she was advised that she needed an operation. However, at the time, she had recently separated from her husband, was experiencing significant emotional and financial difficulties, and could not afford the required treatment. However, as her symptoms progressively worsened over the years, Annociata sought further help at our medical partner’s hospital, Rushoroza Hospital, having learned about their services from a friend who had previously received treatment there. Annociata traveled for approximately an hour, spending about UGX 25,000 on transport. Her mother accompanied her, and the transport money was borrowed from a small village savings group, which the family is expected to repay. Upon arrival at Rushoroza Hospital, Annociata and her mother were warmly welcomed by the medical team. She underwent assessment and was diagnosed with a goiter.
Annociata needs surgery to prevent her symptoms from getting worse. Fortunately, our medical partner, African Mission Healthcare (AMH), can help Annociata receive treatment. On August 12th, she will undergo a thyroidectomy, during which surgeons will remove all or part of her thyroid gland. AMH is requesting $333 to fund this surgery.
Annociata said, “I humbly appeal to the AMH-SAFE Program donors to come to my support and help me receive the surgery I need. I have lived with this swelling for many years, and it has affected my comfort, confidence, breathing, and ability to carry out my daily activities. As a mother of three children living with my elderly mother, I do not have the financial ability to pay for the operation. Your support would give me hope and help me receive the treatment that can relieve my suffering and allow me to return to my daily work and care for my children. I sincerely pray that you will stand with me and my family during this difficult time. I will remain deeply grateful for your kindness and generosity. May God richly bless the AMH-SAFE Program donors for every assistance they extend to families like mine.”