From the beginning of Kiwoko Hospital, there has been significant emphasis on the need to care of the poor and the vulnerable. Many of our patients come from impoverished backgrounds, some living hand-to-mouth, simply surviving from day to day. When sickness hits, life becomes an even greater struggle. Many can not afford appropriate care; some try to self-medicate; others present very late into the illness, sometimes too late.
Just over a month ago whilst working in OPD I met a lady, Patricia*, and her 32-year-old son. From a local village, they are typical of many of our patients living simply and earning a little money here and there from digging, making charcoal etc. In OPD it was evident that Patricia’s son was very sick, and had been for a few days. His symptoms indicated he likely had an infection of the brain. They had no money, but they knew he needed expert medical input and so had attended the hospital with the hope he would be treated. Following discussion with JB (our Customer Care Officer) he was admitted to the ward for emergency management.
Unfortunately within 24 hours Patricia’s son rapidly deteriorated falling unconscious and the medical team discussed the need for referral for a brain CT scan in Kampala with Patricia. But Patricia knew they had no money (or hope of getting money from anywhere) and decided she would rather stay in Kiwoko and pray that her son recovered.
Since then, Patricia has loyally stayed by her son’s side night and day, depending on her local community to bring her food and any other necessities. Her son has received treatments for different brain infections, with slight improvement, but unfortunately remains very unwell and the likelihood of recovery is very small. This is naturally distressing for Patricia. And to add to this, the hospital bill is now very large. Despite help from the Good Samaritan Fund and others the bill is still £340, far beyond what Patricia could ever imagine being able to pay. [To prevent the hospital bills becoming bigger, she has opted for transfer to a government hospital.]
It is for patients (and families) like these that the Kiwoko Hospital Good Samaritan Fund exists – patients who truly have no money or resources to pay for the essential medical bills. This restricted fund is resourced solely by donors, by well-wishers who want to help people like Patricia and her son. To ensure it is used appropriate, patients are assessed by our Customer Care Officer, JB, and his team. Yet the truth is we are limited in what we can do. There are more patients needing help than there is money in the fund. Resources are limited, and the need is great.
Could you help KH support more needy patients by providing a one-off or regular donation to the Good Samaritan Fund?
Could you help by specifically helping Patricia with the hospital bill for her son?
Linda.
Full permission given by Patricia (*name changed) to share this story and picture.
