Steven Ariong, Moroto – Teaching in Karamoja is one of the most challenging and risky professions, and many teachers who are appointed to the region often spend only a year before transferring back to their districts of origin due to the harsh conditions. However, Mr. John Okello Dokolem, a long-serving tutor in Karamoja and currently the CCT for Morulem CC, has remained steadfast and never considered quitting.
Despite managing these difficulties, Mr. Dokolem is now facing a particularly distressing situation due to the severe medical condition of his beloved wife, who is undergoing tumor operations at Mengo Hospital.
The dedicated tutor is struggling to raise Shs 50 million to save the life of his wife, Ms. Dina Achom, who has also been employed at Moroto Municipal Council.
Speaking to this publication, the tearful tutor is appealing to President Museveni and any well-wishers to assist him with any amount of money to help cover the hospital bills.
Mr. Dokolem mentioned that his wife has undergone three operations and he remains hopeful due to the commitment of the doctors.
“Initially, we were advised to go to India, but the cost of Shs 80 million for treatment and travel was beyond our means. A friend suggested that we could opt for surgery in Uganda, so we went to Mengo Hospital. Although funds are limited, we are seeing some hope,” he said.
Mr. Dokolem believes that President Museveni and other well-wishers can help him save his wife’s life.
“I am stuck, stuck, and stuck. They need this money urgently, but we have not yet secured it. I need help from anyone who can assist,” he pleaded.
He explained that he has sold nearly all his assets, including land, in an attempt to raise the necessary funds but has still fallen short.
The discovery of the brain tumor in his wife was made in 2019, and they have been struggling with treatment for the past five years.
In early 2023, they were referred to India for surgery but could not afford the required amount for treatment and travel.
“I took out a salary loan and sold most of our assets, but we still could not raise the over Shs 70 million needed,” he said.
On 23rd August 2024, he took his wife to Mengo Hospital for surgery to remove the tumor, which was successfully completed. However, the patient has been in the ICU at Mengo for about 31 days and was transferred to the surgical ward on 20th August 2024.
According to the invoice seen by this publication, the total bill as of 20th August 2024 is Shs 61,644,890. They have managed to pay Shs 23,987,000 of the total bill, leaving a balance of Shs 37,657,890.
Mr. Dokolem can be reached at 0772 339 896.
