Family Stories
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ONE MAN’S STORY
My name is Jonah. I am 48 years and I live with my sister, Juliet in the hills of Kachwamba in Fort Portal, a rural area in Western Uganda. We come from a low-income family with various challenges but we manage to meet our daily needs.
In the early adolescent stage of my life, I developed Elephantiasis. This debilitating disease put me and my family into a new world of permanent caretaking. My parents used herbal solutions and spent so much money on medical bills. Periodic checkups and continuous medication became the norm for me. I am most vulnerable in the cold weather, when my condition deteriorates. Due to this condition, I have led a single life with no prospects for marriage. I also live a low profile life because of the stigma that I always faced due to this illness.
On the bright side, I do piggery and local poultry for my income. I do them on a small scale but hope to expand in the future. I have trusted customers who purchase my eggs, chicken, and pigs. My customers are also supportive as they often offer me a cup of water and some food whenever I deliver products to them. Despite the weakness in my body, delivering products provides me with much-needed exercise.
I have also maintained a good saving plan so that I can eventually build a smart residential house for myself. I am hopeful that I will receive thorough treatment for my legs and be able to walk properly one day.
