Emergency support for the consequences of 7.7 earthquake in Myanmar
Atwijukire Matthew, is a 6 year-old boy from Mitooma district in South Western Uganda, who is a living example of what patience, love, and support can achieve. Born to Jovet Twongyeirwe, Matthew’s early months were marked by uncertainty and struggle. At just 4 months old, he developed hydrocephalus, a condition that causes fluid to accumulate in the brain. His mother, unsure of where to seek help, felt lost. “I did not know where to take him,” she recalls. It was later only through the advice of a kind-hearted former parent who had received services who advised me and found my way to OURS program.
The team at OURS recognized Matthew’s needs and referred him to Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital, where a neurosurgeon assessed his condition. To his mother’s relief, the doctor informed her that the hydrocephalus had resolved itself. However, the journey was far from over. Matthew continued to face significant developmental delays. “He had difficulties sitting, standing, walking, and even speaking,” his mother explains.
Despite these challenges, OURS program became a pillar of support for Matthew and his mother. Through continuous training and assistance, they helped him progress through critical developmental milestones. The team provided a posterior walker to help him learn to walk and a standing frame to strengthen his ability to stand. Later, a local politician generously donated a wheelchair, which became a vital tool for Matthew to move between home and school.
Matthew and his mother in 2021 during a training for Matthew to learn to stand upright.
“I am very thankful that he has been able to develop from one stage to another,” his mother shares with gratitude. Over time, Matthew’s determination and the support he received paid off. What was once a struggle to move became an empowering journey towards independence. “At first, I used to think I would always push him in a wheelchair, but now he’s able to move on his own,” she says proudly.
Matthew learns to take steps with a walker
Today, Matthew is thriving in the top class at school, a milestone that once seemed out of reach. Despite the ongoing financial challenges that come with raising a child with special needs, his mother remains hopeful. “My income is not enough as I only depend on peasant farming for survival,” she admits. “Yet he needs school fees and sometimes expensive food.“
Her message to other parents is one of love, hope, and patience. “I appeal to all parents who have children affected like Mathew, to love their children, take them to appropriate hospitals, and keep hope alive,” she urges. “Be patient. Our children have potential, and with support, they can achieve great things.“
Her gratitude for OURS team is profound. “I am very happy for the team at OURS because they loved Matthew so much and supported me appropriately. I can’t thank you enough,” she says, her voice filled with appreciation.
The lesson we have learnt from Matthew’s story has given us a reminder that with dedication, community support, and a mother’s unyielding love, children with long term conditions can defy expectations and flourish. Though we appreciate that his journey is far from over, each step forward is a testament to what is possible when services, care and compassion come together.
2021
2025
