Devis Kipsang is a 12-year-old hailing from Eastern Uganda. Kipsang is battling a serious heart condition that has left him in constant pain and unable to live a normal life. While he had been relatively stable, in June 2025, his health began to deteriorate rapidly.
His family first noticed that his stomach was swelling abnormally, causing him intense pain and discomfort. The swelling worsened over time, making it difficult for him to eat and move freely. Alarmed, his caregivers sought medical attention, and opted for a scan which later revealed that the problem was not originating from his heart.
The doctors explained that Kipsang has a congenital heart defect, where openings developed in the walls of the heart. This condition leads to oxygen-rich blood mixing with de-oxygenated blood, reducing the amount of oxygen circulating in the body. As a result, vital organs particularly the liver are overworked. This strain caused his liver to enlarge, leading to the visible swelling of his abdomen.
Kipsang was initially taken to Kapchorwa Hospital, but due to the complexity of his condition, he was referred to Mulago National Referral Hospital for specialized care. Here, a detailed medical assessment and an A4 medical report confirmed that his heart condition requires corrective surgery, which must be performed in India.
Since then, Kipsang’s condition has continued to worsen. He now spends most of his time lying at home in the village, battling persistent pain, extreme fatigue and a severely reduced appetite. His caregivers say he has grown visibly weaker, and his life has significantly declined.
While his family is overwhelmed financially as Kipsang’s father is physically disabled and unable to work, his has left the family without a steady source of income. His grandfather, who has been supporting him, says their only asset is a small piece of land which, even if sold, would raise no more than Shs10 million, far below what is required.
The doctors have estimated that the family needs Shs48m to cover medical expenses, including visa processing, travel costs and hospital bills for the surgery in India.
With limited options, the family is appealing to the public for help to save Kipsang’s life.
Arat Sukukon, Kipsang’s grandfather says, ‘I am seeking support in terms of funds to enable us to contribute towards Kipsant’s heart surgery.’