Phionah Atuhaire, a 32-year-old resident of Nyakihanga Cell in Hamurwa Town Council, Rubanda District, is battling life after losing both her legs to amputation. Married to Donnozio Biryomumisho, with whom she has three children, Atuhaire was a farmer whose life took a drastic turn in 2019 when she suffered a full-body stroke, eventually leading to the amputation of her first leg.
Atuhaire, who had been managing with one leg for several years, saw her condition worsen this year when the same affliction affected her remaining leg. Following several unsuccessful hospital visits, including to Kiruddu and Kabale Regional Referral Hospital, her second leg was amputated in August 2024. Doctors determined that the condition was gangrene, a severe loss of blood flow to the limbs that causes tissue death.
In an emotional interview, Atuhaire shared her struggles. “I can no longer perform daily tasks like cooking, moving around the house, or even going to the latrine. My life has drastically changed,” she said, adding that her condition has left her bed-ridden.
Her husband, Donnozio Biryomumisho, expressed the family’s frustration after seeking medical help from numerous hospitals, only to have amputation become the final solution. “It has been a tough journey. My wife can no longer contribute to the household like she used to,” he lamented.
Today, however, a ray of hope appeared for the struggling family when Evelyne Ninsiima Kikafunda, the President of Green Environment Promotion (GEP), donated a wheelchair to Atuhaire. The wheelchair is expected to greatly improve her mobility and restore some independence in her daily life.
Kikafunda, known for her philanthropic work, said this donation is part of her ongoing efforts to assist people with disabilities. “Last year, we donated over 450 wheelchairs across Kigezi, and we aim to help even more people in need,” she stated.
In her message to the family, Kikafunda emphasized the importance of emotional support. “It’s vital that the family continues to comfort and support each other to remain emotionally strong through these challenges,” she advised.
Dr. Mugarura Robert, a consultant surgeon from Bethel Surgical Clinic, explained that Atuhaire’s condition, known as gangrene, often occurs when blood fails to reach certain parts of the body, leading to tissue death. “This is more common in older individuals, but factors like alcoholism and smoking can also contribute to such conditions,” he said. Dr. Mugarura emphasized the importance of lifestyle changes to prevent further complications, as untreated gangrene usually leads to amputation.
Atuhaire’s story highlights the challenges faced by many families dealing with severe medical conditions, but also the potential for community support to make a difference in the lives of those in need.
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