Single mum of 3 near Kampala, Uganda faces cervical cancer with no family support
Auckland
My name is Rose Mary, a single mum of 3 girls, 14, 13 and 2.5, one with epilepsy and frequent seizures. I've been having health issues since the day I learnt that my ex-husband was HIV positive. I found out when I came across his medication hidden in his suitcase. When I confronted him he threw me and the girls out. We tried going to friends for shelter but they all closed doors on us. Weeks later I found out I had high blood pressure and HIV as well. Life got so terrible since we were living on some shops balcony for we didn't have a place to call home. I was pregnant at the time with my 2.5-year old. My girls went looking for work to get us something to eat and my blood pressure medications. One of my girls was nearly raped while trying to clean someone’s house. We started working as a team and saved some money and eventually got ourselves a single room. A few months ago I was diagnosed with diabetes and then again a week ago was told I have cervical cancer. Months ago I shared with a friend on Facebook what I was going through and that I was sick and jobless. I had an idea of starting a soft drinks business but didn't have the capital, so she helped me out. The business was going OK but can’t support my treatment and I’ve had to stay home due to my medical problems. The doctor said it’s still early and I can get well if treated on time but I’m scared. I humbly request your help.
*note the real name of this individual is not being disclosed to allow her privacy.
Since I became a widow in 2020, Facebook has helped me connect to other women around the world who have struggles with widowhood, cancer and other major life challenges I can relate to. This is how I met Rose Mary.
Rose Mary will use the money to pay for medical treatment and a small amount of capital so she can start working as a mobile money agent while she juggles serious illness and being a single mum.
Treatment changes 7 May 2023
With your help, we managed to raise enough for Joyce to begin radiotherapy. She went into the hospital to proceed. However, after some tests, her doctor advised that as things have progressed, it was no longer the best course of action so instead scheduled her for surgery. Unfortunately they then realised that the surgery cost more than she had available and so she is now stuck in hospital. If anyone is able to contribute towards Joyce's surgery, we are looking for another 900 NZD.
Thank you Suzanne :)
Thank you Pauline x
Thank you so much Jeannette!
Thanks Wendy! x
Your message will be displayed on the page and emailed to the donor.
Your new message will also be emailed to the donor.
Saving a blank entry will delete the current comment.