Gulu, Uganda: Everlyn Apio, a 39-year-old mother of two, is appealing to the public to help her raise the remaining Shs. 2.3 million needed for urgent heart surgery after being diagnosed with rheumatic heart disease.
Apio’s health struggle began in February last year when she developed pale, yellowish eyes and later started coughing blood. Initial treatment at Gulu Regional Referral Hospital revealed a severe heart condition, prompting referrals to St. Mary’s Hospital Lacor and finally Mulago National Referral Hospital, where she underwent a minor palliative surgery to ease her breathing.
Doctors say Apio requires urgent valve replacement surgery estimated at Shs. 11.8 million (USD 3,300). Through family and community support, she has so far raised Shs. 9.5 million (USD 2,660) but still falls short by Shs. 2.3 million.
“I am left with little time. I plead to anyone to support with anything so that I can save my life,” Apio told DailyExpress in a faint voice, gasping for air.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), rheumatic heart disease is a preventable but deadly illness affecting an estimated 55 million people worldwide, claiming 360,000 lives annually—mainly in low-income nations like Uganda. Its symptoms include chest pain, fatigue, irregular heartbeat and difficulty breathing.
Apio, who previously earned a living selling second-hand clothes, is no longer able to work or care for her two children. Since her illness worsened, her uncle has been looking after them.
At the time of filing this story (August 25th, 2025), Apio’s condition had worsened. An ambulance had rushed her from Soroti District, where she had gone to visit her relative, to Mulago Regional Referral Hospital.
For any well-wishers who would like to extend financial support, kindly contact Apio or send your support on her telephone number: (+256) 772000196. The number is registered to this MTN “mobile money” name: Everlyn Letrecia Apio.
