The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) 3 Infantry Division – based in Moroto district on Saturday joined hundreds of partners, sponsors and the general public to raise awareness about the treatment of brain disorders in vulnerable children by CURE Children’s Hospital.
This was witnessed by participating in the annual CURE Brain Surgery Charity Run and Walk in Mbale City.
CURE Children’s Hospital is a Private Non – Profit, Christian hospital, specialized in Pediatric Neurosurgery and Integrated Spiritual Ministry.
Speaking during the function on behalf of the Chief Guest/ Runner and also Managing Director of Umeme Uganda (Ltd), Mr. Babungi Selestino, the company’s Head of Communications, Mr. Peter Kaujju, cautioned all well-wishers to donate generously towards the plight of vulnerable children.
”Its believed that when early interventions and treatment is made, the children have a great chance to live,” he said.
Participants of 6th CURE Brain Surgery Run/Walk stand in honor of Uganda and EAC Anthems at CURE Children’s Hospital, Mbale City.
Umeme donated UGX 15,000,000 (fifteen million Shillings) towards this cause.
The 3 Division Infantry Commander Brig Gen Joseph Balikudembe, who patronized the UPDF team, reminded participants of UPDF being a pro – people army; and therefore, ready to associate with people in all activities aimed at improving on their wellness.
“As a Peoples’ Army, we are delighted to participate in such an annual charity event to support children with abnormalities,” Brig Gen Balikudembe remarked.
Speaking at the same function, the Executive Director for CURE Children’s Hospital, Mr. Tim Erickson, noted that the medical facility is rapidly growing with 1708 surgeries done so far this year. On average seven (7) surgeries are conducted weekly.
“Let’s continue to work and contribute to make a difference in our communities as we put smiles on the face of vulnerable children to heal,” Mr. Erickson appealed to participants.
He also thanked partners and participants for the collaborative efforts and contributions towards the healing of the country’s vulnerable children.
UPDF 3 Division being recognized and awarded with a certificate of participation for the annual CURE Brain Surgery event.
Dr. Emmanuel Wegoye, a medical officer, commended CURE Children’s Hospital for sponsoring to treat vulnerable and neglected children through such community engagements and events.
Officially opened on 19th January in 2001 and commissioned by the President of the Republic of Uganda H.E Gen Yoweri Museveni, each year CURE Children’s Hospital provides life-saving brain surgeries for over 1,700 patients (an average of 140 per month) and treats more than 9,000 out patients with neurological conditions.
CURE Brain Surgery annual event aims at raising funds to help and support surgeries for vulnerable children with Hydrocephalus, Spina Bifida, Brain tumors and other life-threatening neurological conditions.
The Woman Member of Parliament for Mbale City, Hon Connie Galiwango was among other key senior leaders who graced the occasion.
Key persons, partners and organizations that contributed towards the success of the event were recognized.
The First Lady and Minister for Education and Sports, Presidential Advisor for Special Operations Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), UPDF, Bitature Foundation, Indian Women Association and Rotary Club of Kampala, were among the key contributors.
UPDF participants for CURE Brain Surgery annual event in a group photo
Others included; Toto Africa, Head Way African Initiative, United Bank of Africa, BAM shopping center, Sanlam Insurance and media houses, among others.
Participants were initially taken through aerobics before participating in either the 10KM run or 5KM walk. Children’s physical exercises were also conducted.
UPDF ‘s Private Gimei Nelson emerged winner of the men’s 10KM race.
The next and 7th Annual CURE Brain Surgery Run is slated for October 21, 2023.