Centre of excellence for newborn care in Uganda

Just nine years ago we struggled to care with newborn babies born with abnormalities that needed surgery, especially gastroschisis (a hole in the abdominal wall where all the intestines, stomach and even liver and bladder are left outside). In fact none of our little ones with gastroschisis survived. Now, thanks to the unfaltering determination and dedication of our local neonatal experts, the surgical team and the anaesthesia team, the majority of these little friends not only survive, but go home thriving.

Check out Alaina’s heartfelt journey from December: “When I delivered my third baby, I gave birth to a little boy with gastroschisis. All of his intestines were lying outside of his body. I was shocked and I cried so much. I asked myself, “How would he ever live and be fine?” The doctors placed a cover over his gut (a silo) and slowly his intestines entered back inside his little body, his gut started working and I began to give him my breastmilk in his feeding tube. After the operation to close the hole, my baby continued to gain strength. Now he is breastfeeding and doing so well. Not only is he alive, but today we are going home in time for Christmas. I am very grateful for the treatment and care given to my baby. Thank you.” - Alaina, December 2023

Everyday, our local expert neonatal clinicians not only care for these incredibly sick babies but perhaps more importantly they educate and teach more and more healthcare workers to care for small and sick babies like Alaina’s. Born on the Edge supports critical sustainable equipment and supplies that cannot be procured in Uganda. Without your support we are unable to continue doing this. Please give generously and support the team to save more lives.