KAMPALA – Ugandans have been called upon to participate in the charity run aimed at supporting community-focused wellness and women’s health, particularly in the postnatal period.
The inaugural run, termed ‘TMR Mama Run’ and organised by Tal Medical & Rescue (TMR) International Hospital, is scheduled for Saturday, May 9, on the eve of Mother’s Day, and aims to raise awareness and provide tangible support for mothers’ health.
Dr. Daniel M. Talemwa, the ED TMR International Hospital, emphasised the broader purpose of the initiative, saying, “The Mama Run is more than a fitness event; it is a movement to stand with mothers. We invite everyone, not only mothers but husbands, sons, daughters, fathers, and grandparents, to run in honour of the women who have given us life and nurtured our communities. Through this initiative, we are addressing critical maternal health challenges such as perineal tears, obstetric fistulas, postpartum depression, and post-pregnancy body dysmorphia. Our goal is to ensure that every mother has access to the care and support she deserves.”
Participants in the Mama Run will benefit from a free comprehensive wellness package, including medical screenings such as blood pressure and BMI checks, HIV testing, cholesterol testing, and blood grouping.
“Attendees will also receive complimentary vouchers for consultation with TMR’s Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Therapy specialists.”
Tamale added, “Each ticket purchased also doubles as an entry into a raffle draw, where winners will receive up to 50% discount on a ‘Mummy Makeover' procedure, designed to support women in restoring their physical confidence after childbirth.
Robert Kabushenga, one of the principal technical guides for the run, outlined the event logistics, saying, “We have designed four inclusive routes—3km, 5km, 10km, and 21km—to accommodate participants of all fitness levels. The run will start in Naalya at 6:00 am, with scenic routes passing through the Northern Bypass. Beyond the run, participants will enjoy a vibrant atmosphere with dance workouts, fitness sessions led by professional trainers from Marcos Gym & Spa and a complimentary breakfast to kick-start the day.”
Adding a clinical perspective, Dr. Martin Tungotyo, Consultant Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon, highlighted the importance of postnatal restorative care, saying, “Pregnancy brings significant physical and emotional changes. The ‘Mummy Makeover’ is a tailored set of procedures aimed at restoring body form and boosting confidence. It may include treatments such as tummy tuck, liposuction, and breast procedures. This is about helping mothers feel like themselves again.”
Tickets for the Mama Run are available at all TMR branches.
Postnatal care
Postnatal care refers to the care given to a mother from the point of delivery up to a period of six weeks after delivery. It is probably the most undervalued maternity service by some Ugandan mothers.
Basic Postnatal care services include A supplementation, family planning information and services, as well as advice on feeding for the mother and baby.
Health workers also do a general examination to see whether the mother is healing well, especially if she has had stitches resulting from an episiotomy or caesarean section.