Masindi Ameloblastoma patient hunts for Shs20mln for surgery
He expressed concern for her health as the tumor is now leaking pus, making it even harder for her to eat.
Masindi: Zahaara Nyakaisiki, 24, a resident of Kijura South in Central Division, Masindi Municipality, is struggling to raise Shs20 million for a surgery to remove an Ameloblastoma tumor at CORSU Rehabilitation Hospital in Kampala.
Ameloblastoma is a rare, non-cancerous tumor that grows in the jaw, typically affecting the mandible (lower jawbone). Although benign, it can cause significant pain, swelling, and difficulty chewing. Treatment often involves surgical removal of the tumor.
Nyakaisiki was diagnosed with Ameloblastoma at the age of 16 while still in primary school. However, due to a lack of funds, she couldn’t afford the necessary surgery at the time. Over the years, the tumor has grown progressively, causing her immense pain.
“At first, the swelling inside my mouth was small, and I thought it would go away. But it kept growing, and I didn’t inform my parents right away. After diagnosis, we were referred to CORSU Rehabilitation Hospital, but the costs are too high,” she shared with ugreports.co.ug.
Without the financial means to proceed with surgery, she initially tried herbal treatments, but the condition worsened.
“We’ve already spent over Shs5 million seeking medical care without success, and now we have nothing left. I am pleading for help from well-wishers, civil society organizations, companies, and the government to assist me with the funds for the operation,” she appealed.
Nyakaisiki also faces significant stigmatization due to the tumor, which has affected her social life and mental health.
“The stigmatization is overwhelming. I feel out of place, and that’s why I dropped out of school while in Senior One. Eating is also difficult as I can’t eat hard foods. Sleeping is a challenge because I have to sleep on my back throughout the night. The weight of the tumor keeps increasing,” she stressed.
Deo Kamanyire, 54, Nyakaisiki’s uncle, explained that after the death of Nyakaisiki’s father when she was just six months old, her mother and relatives have been taking care of her.
“I’m doing everything I can to help her, but I have nothing. Getting food she can eat is also a challenge since she can only eat soft foods,” Kamanyire said.
He expressed concern for her health as the tumor is now leaking pus, making it even harder for her to eat.
“She needs urgent medical attention. It breaks my heart to see her in so much pain, constantly asking for help. My plea to well-wishers is to intervene and provide financial support for her treatment,” he added.
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