Achom Betty is 50 years old and lives in Masindi District. For more than 20 years, she lived with obstetric fistula following a prolonged and complicated labour.
Betty laboured at home for two days under the care of a traditional birth attendant before being taken to a nearby clinic, and later referred to Soroti Regional Referral Hospital. Although her baby was delivered, complications followed, and she soon began leaking urine. An initial attempt at repair was unsuccessful, and Betty was discharged home believing that fistula was something she would live with forever.
The impact on her life was devastating. Betty was rejected by her husband and family, accused of infidelity and witchcraft, and forced to leave her home. With nowhere to turn, she spent years moving between districts, repeatedly facing rejection and isolation. Over time, she came to believe that fistula was incurable, and even when she later heard about treatment, her husband initially refused to allow her to seek care.
Betty eventually learned about fistula repair through former patients supported by UVP. When she saw women return healed, she began to believe that recovery might be possible for her too. With encouragement from UVP staff—and support with transport—Betty was able to attend the fistula camp at Kiryandongo Hospital in November, where she finally received the surgery she had waited decades for.
As she prepares to return home, Betty speaks with hope about reuniting with her family and reclaiming the sense of belonging she lost so long ago. Her children, once distant, are now eager for her return, and she looks forward to rebuilding her life with dignity.
“I cannot thank you enough for the support you have given me. You have brought life and happiness back to my family. Thank you for everything you have done for me—the treatment, meals, transport, and not giving up on me. Words cannot express how happy and appreciative I am.”
Betty’s story is a reminder that while fistula can steal years of a woman’s life, timely access to treatment—and compassionate support—can restore hope, family, and future.