Ssemwogerere Francis, 28 year old Ugandan male
Francis was brought in at about midnight 13th July 2010 picked from Kyadondo Rugby Ground following the Sunday night bomb blasts, he was unable to move or feel his lower limbs. His spine was stabilized and he was admitted into ICU with a suspected spinal injury. Further investigation suggested an injury to the trachea, the oesophagus and right lung.
Our team managed his immediate injuries; however, his condition has been fluctuant in the past 24 since the blast. Francis’ clinical care will be complex and extended and he may remain with permanent disability.
Francis works as a coordinator for Hunger-free world (a Japanese NGO) and is married with a two-year old daughter.
Can I just say that I had the honour of being part of the immediate care team for Francis in the early hours of the morning and throughout all has remained an incredible young man who has never complained and has remained positive and hopeful. Please consider Franicis in whatever way you can. It would be so wonderful for he and his family get the care and support they need.
Diane – words fail me in thanking you in addition to all the rest of the team that has been working so fervently in times such as these. I am concerned about Francis’ prognosis and how this is going to impact on his young family…
Today when I went on my daily visit to Francis and a few others in ICU I was astounded when Francis physically lifted his hand, took mine in his and shook it. He then intimated that he was requesting continued visits!….a very clear intimation to me that this is a man with incredible spirit, motivation and determionation to get out of this and is slowely showing small steps of improvement. What about a few emails of support for him? would that be appropriate for readers of this site to write a few words to motivate him. I will happily take responsibility for printing off and taking to read to him. It would also be a tremendous support for his family during the long road ahead. anyone who would like to offer him a bit of motivation my email is dianel@img.co.ug. Also Alice is a lovely young lady who has had a long struggle with brain swelling who could also do with a bit of motivation. Please feel free to email as appropriate
Many thanks
[...] Here is the earlier posting about Francis. [...]