Jasmine Kahard Katusiime, a 35-year-old woman, is in urgent need of financial assistance for life-saving cancer treatment.
She has been diagnosed with Primary Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma, Mycosis Fungoides, a rare and aggressive form of skin cancer that has not responded to initial treatments in Uganda.
“While caring for my niece during the COVID-19 pandemic after an insecticide can explosion, I was frequently exposed to sanitiser. After two months, I noticed peeling skin on my fingers, which I initially attributed to this constant exposure. However, the peeling eventually spread to my feet and worsened, despite consulting several dermatologists over three years,” Katusiime narrates.
“In 2023, I was diagnosed with stage 1B mycosis fungoides, a type of cancer affecting T-cells. After undergoing several cycles of chemotherapy with limited resources, my doctor recommended a bone marrow transplant since no further treatment options are available for me in Uganda.”
According to a support letter from the Uganda Cancer Institute, Jasmine’s condition has worsened despite undergoing chemotherapy.
Doctors have now recommended an Allogeneic Bone Marrow Transplant (BMT), a complex and highly specialised procedure that can only be performed in advanced medical facilities outside Uganda, such as those in Europe or India.
“I am seeking Shs300m for treatment and other expenses during my stay abroad,” she added.
Cost of Treatment and Urgent Fundraising Appeal
Dr. Henry Ddungu, Senior Consultant (Hematology/Oncology) at the Uganda Cancer Institute, estimates the cost of the BMT to be between $50,000 and $60,000 USD (approximately UGX 300 million).
This amount covers the transplant procedure, potential complications, and necessary post-transplant care, including intensive monitoring.
Jasmine’s family and friends have launched an urgent fundraising campaign to raise the required funds. Time is critical, as doctors warn that any delay in treatment could lead to further deterioration of her health.
About Mycosis Fungoides
Mycosis Fungoides is a rare type of cancer that affects the T-cells in the immune system, primarily manifesting in the skin. Early stages often appear as scaly patches or bumps, but as the disease progresses, it can spread, causing widespread skin redness and abnormal T-cell infiltration into the bloodstream.
Jasmine’s condition has reached an advanced stage, making the bone marrow transplant her best hope for survival.
“Unfortunately, the other treatment options are very expensive and bone marrow transplant is not available in Uganda, but it can be done at other centres, including in Europe and/or India,” noted Dr Ddungu.
How You Can Help
Jasmine’s loved ones are appealing to the generosity of Ugandans and well-wishers worldwide to help fund her treatment. Any contribution, no matter how small, can make a difference in saving her life.
Donations Can Be Made Through:
MTN Mobile Money: +256784943370
Airtel Mobile Money: +256705287190
Stanbic Bank Account Number: 9030021515263
Stanbic Bank Account Name: Katusiime Jasmine Kahard (Stanbic Bank – Nakasero branch)
Jasmine’s case is a race against time. Her family, friends, and the medical community urge the public to come together and support her fight for survival. The family is also planning a car wash this Saturday.