”THANKS PIUMA”
PIUMA member successfully battles cancer thanks to PIUMA’s help
Baton Ngao, a PIUMA member from Makwaranga, was recently diagnosed with cancer, after contracting HIV in 2005. When Baton began to experience symptoms of his cancer, Bulongwa Lutheran Hospital, the clinic nearest to him failed to provide a treatment or diagnosis.
Baton was then transferred to Makete, where again he was turned away. Finally, with the help of PIUMA, Baton sought treatment at the Mbeya Hospital, where his condition was recognized, and he was promptly relocated to Ocean Road Hospital in Dar es Salaam.
With PIUMA funding his treatment, Baton was able to overcome his cancer, and his condition has improved significantly since his release from hospital in Dar es Salaam. He has regained his hair and strength, allowing him to even make the 25-kilometer walk from Makwaranga to Bulongwa to attend a PIUMA meeting.
Baton lost his wife several years ago, and now takes care of his daughter and his daughter’s friend on his own. He took in this second child after both of her parents passed away.
Baton joined PIUMA when he tested positive for HIV in order to unite with others affected by the virus, and to learn more about its spread and treatment. About his amazing recovery, Baton says, “it [has made] me feel much better to join together with other HIV patients.”
PIUMA member-BATON NGAO
STORY by HH volunteer.
Jackson says:
Just to add to this story, Not only the Clinician in his first Hospital could not diagnosis the sickness from Burton but he could not even notice the rapid deterioration of Burton’s health.
Burton is one of few witness to the fact that if quality, affordable treatment and care is available to the People Living with HIV/AIDS we can save the lives of many.
Governments should see that the resources intended for health is properly allocated and utilised for the improvement of health services.
Nidekile