In a quiet home in Omodingo village, Katakwi District, 37-year-old Betty Atim is fighting not only disease but the collapse of her livelihood.
For four years, Atim has battled hepatitis B, a struggle that has cost her land, livestock and savings. Now, after being referred from Katakwi General Hospital to Mulago National Referral Hospital, she faces another challenge: raising more than 3 million Ugandan shillings (about $800) for further treatment.
“I have nothing left,” she said.
Medical reports show her liver has shrunk and developed complications, an indication that her condition is worsening. Beyond her illness, Atim is a single mother of four children, all out of school because she can no longer afford fees.
“They are bright children,” she said. “But they are just at home, waiting.”
Atim was admitted to Katakwi General Hospital on March 9, 2026, and discharged March 25. Doctors advised her to report to Mulago National Referral Hospital immediately, but she has been unable to travel. Even the initial 750,000 shillings needed to begin treatment in Kampala remains out of reach.
She now has debts of about 2 million shillings and is appealing to well-wishers, leaders and organizations for help to cover treatment, transport, food and hospital expenses.
Her sister, Polly Acom, who is caring for her, said the family is overwhelmed. Their income comes from small-scale farming and occasional loans, which are no longer sufficient.
“She is not getting the care she needs because we simply cannot afford it,” Acom said. Much of the responsibility has fallen on their younger brother, a salon operator, whose support remains limited.
Local leaders have also raised concern. Charles Opio, the parish councilor of Akoboi, called for urgent intervention to support both Atim’s treatment and her children’s education.
“These children are intelligent, but they are suffering,” he said. Opio appealed to national leaders, including Vice President Jessica Rose Alupo and State Minister for Sports Peter Ogwang, to intervene.
For now, Atim waits, hoping her story will prompt support to access life-saving care. Contributions can be sent through her contact: 0778178101 (Atim Betty).
