Every Penny Counts! Fundraising Drive Launched To Save Nantege Esther Battling Rheumatic Heart Disease

By Frank Kamuntu

A fundraising campaign has been launched to raise money for life-saving heart surgery for Ms. Nantege Esther, a Ugandan woman diagnosed with severe Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD).

According to medical reports from the Uganda Heart Institute at Mulago National Referral Hospital, Ms. Esther is suffering from severe mitral stenosis, mild aortic regurgitation and severe pulmonary hypertension, conditions that require urgent surgical intervention to prevent life-threatening complications.

Doctors warn that without timely surgery, Ms. Esther faces a high risk of heart failure, stroke and possible death.

Medical findings contained in an echocardiography report indicate that her heart valves have been severely damaged by RHD, a condition commonly caused by untreated streptococcal infections during childhood. The report recommends prompt surgical management to improve her quality of life and long-term survival.

Family members and friends say the illness has severely affected Esther’s ability to work and live a normal life, noting that she continues to endure physical pain and emotional distress as she awaits treatment.

“Esther is a woman with dreams and responsibilities. With this operation, she has a chance to live free from pain, regain her strength and embrace motherhood,” a family representative said.

The surgery is scheduled to be carried out at the Uganda Heart Institute, but the cost remains beyond the family’s financial means, prompting the public appeal for support.

Well-wishers, individuals, organisations and members of the public have been urged to contribute towards the medical expenses to help save her life.

Contributions can be made through Bank of Africa Account Number: Nantege Esther – 01942480006. Those willing to offer additional assistance or inquiries can contact 0701 410 858 or 0752 805 026.

Organisers of the drive have called on Ugandans to stand in solidarity, emphasizing that every contribution no matter how small brings Esther closer to a second chance at life.

“Life is precious, and together, we can save Esther,” the appeal reads.