Catherine Bonabana was a young girl when doctors told her and her family that saving her life would mean losing her leg. The cancer in Catherine’s leg had progressed to the point that an above-knee amputation was the only option. Catherine underwent the surgery, and her life was saved.
But recovery, for a young girl in the hilly terrain of Nyakasharu, Uganda, brought its own challenges. Without a walking aid, the slopes and uneven path to school were difficult to navigate. So, after surgery, she did not return to school. Her mother, a market vendor and the family’s sole provider, was already stretched thin. School fees were an added burden that the family could not carry alone. Catherine’s dreams of learning and building a brighter future quietly went on hold.
PCAU first reached Catherine through SHiNE, its program for children living with serious illness. SHiNE supported her treatment and provided her with elbow crutches to help her move through her community. It was a meaningful first step toward rebuilding her independence. But as SHiNE staff continued to visit, it became clear that surviving cancer was only part of Catherine’s journey.
She still faced barriers to education, mobility, and the everyday opportunities that allow a child to grow.
Road to Hope, PCAU’s program that supports vulnerable children and families through education, psychosocial support, and basic needs assistance, provided the next step. Together, the two programs worked to support not only Catherine’s health but also her education, independence, and future.
With support from both programs, Catherine is now enrolled in a boarding school, where the daily terrain is no longer a barrier. In her free time, she has discovered a talent for weaving baskets, which she sells to support her family.
Most recently, thanks to generous donations, Catherine received an improved walking aid that has given her greater independence and confidence in her community. Today, Catherine and her mother are looking toward the future with renewed confidence.
Catherine’s road has not been easy. But because of the care she received through SHiNE and Road to Hope, she is moving forward. With your support, more children like Catherine will receive the care, opportunity, and encouragement they need to do the same.
By Austin Marchand, PCAU Intern / Volunteer