Masindi woman seeks over sh70m for treatment after two years on oxygen

MASINDI - Zaina Katusiime, 43, a resident of Kijura North cell in Masindi Municipality, is in profound pain and despair after spending two years dependent on oxygen, with no immediate hope for recovery.

Katusiime was diagnosed with Intestinal Lung Disease (ILD) in 2024 at Mulago National Specialised Hospital, following a referral from Hoima Regional Referral Hospital. The referral was ocassioned by persistent cough, which did not cure.

ILD, also known as gut-lung axis dysfunction or enterogenic lung injury, is a group of respiratory conditions believed to be influenced or exacerbated by issues originating in the gastrointestinal tract, often necessitating long-term oxygen therapy. 

Enterogenic lung injury is also called acute lung injury (ALI) or acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) that originates from, or is significantly exacerbated by, dysfunction in the gastrointestinal tract.

"I spent about one year at Mulago National Specialised Hospital, and when we ran out of resources, we decided to come back home," Katusiime told New Vision Online on January 30, 2026. 

"Even at home, I am always on oxygen cylinders and in much pain. I can't sit; I am always asleep."

She is currently under the care of her elderly  and weak parents, Masituura Wandera, 76, and Muhammad Wandera, 87, who is also crippled by a stroke.

Katusiime revealed that she now needs over shillings 70 million for proper medical treatment abroad, but lacks even the transport fare to Kampala.

The family is unable to bear the financial burden, especially since Katusiime has been bedridden for two years.

"Through the help of Hoima City Resident City Commissioner Badru Mugabi, we requested the administration of Masindi general hospital to assist us with cylinders after we had completely failed," she said.

Her children previously spend shillings 70,000 to refill the oxygen cylinders, a cost they can no longer manage.

Katusiime has appealed to humanitarian organisations, companies, the Government, individual government officials, and well-wishers to help her access the necessary medication and find relief from her pain.

Mastuura Wandera, Katusiime's mother, expressed the family's dire situation. 

"My relatives, grandchildren, and I have done what we can, but we have now failed. That's why we have reached out to the New Vision to help us get treatment for my child. We are now exhausted, and the years we've been struggling are many. We no longer work because we have to provide care. We have lost hope completely. I am calling upon the President and the Prime Minister to rescue us," she said.

Ramathan Atugonza, Katusiime's son, highlighted the challenges of caring for his mother, especially as her children are all boys. 

He is deeply concerned about the pain his mother endures without any hope of healing.

"I talked to a specialized doctor about this complication, and he said it needs over sh70M, adding that it's a manageable complication that can be treated. My appeal to the people and other well-wishers is to stand with us as a family."

Any help can be channeled through 0762657485 in the name of Zaina Katusiime and Amina Asiimwe on 0771307545.