Service amidst Challenges!

On Friday 19, March 2010, the Lions of Kampala Central together with a team of doctors, nurses and other support staff set off on a journey to Kyabugimbi Health centre in Bushenyi District for the Second Medical camp. The camp was held successfully on 20th March and 2448 patients with different ailments received free treatment.

(Left in the photo, Lions and Leos doing registration at one of the centres)

The journey travelled was one of the most challenging so far; from the heavy downpour that characterized both days to surviving a nasty accident on the Mbarara – Bushenyi road which left our bus very damaged but fortunately with no one hurt in the process. All that could not deter us from our purpose and we finally held our camp successfully.

We set off at 10:00am amidst heavy rain, traversed the rough Makasa-Kampala road (under construction) up to Lukaya where we had our stop-over for some gonja. We reached Mbarara in time for our schedule radio talk show at Radio West studios. As other sat for Lunch, Lion Dr. Cillasy Tumwesigye together with Lion Venie Tinkumanya, went for the talk show where they explained Lions activities in general and the magnitude of our camp in particular. They then joined us as we got back on the journey to Bushenyi where we had scheduled to distribute sanitary pads to the girls of Nyakabanga and Kibona secondary schools.

Seven Kilometres into the journey, a speeding salon car overturned and damaged our bus but fortunately nobody was hurt in the accident including miraculously the driver of the salon car. We then began the long process of recording statements with the traffic police which lasted more than expected and we lost more time which in the end affected our program. We had to postpone the distribution of Pads to Sunday after the camp. I am glad that it was finally done successfully.

We reached at our host’s (Lions John Bosco and Mercy Ntangaare) home at about 8:00pm. We then refreshed, had tea and a brief meeting before we proceeded to dinner and retired to sleep.

It’s Saturday 20th, the day of the camp. We quickly have breakfast and head to the venue (Kyabugimbi health centre) which was about 4kms from the Ntangaare’s residence. The crowds had gathered already. We quickly set up our different registration, examination and treatment centres as well as the dispensary. Everything soon started going smoothly until the rain started pouring heavily. My surprise and challenge for the day; despite the rain, people did not leave the lines for registration, so Lions had nothing to do but run for umbrellas and continue with registration.

The numbers were overwhelming but our bigger medical team worked tirelessly and in the end, everybody was served.

(In the photo, Lions at registration overwhelmed by numbers)

The occasion was graced with the presence of the Minister of State for Health (General duties) who is also the area Member of Parliament. He congratulated Lions for the wonderful job to humanity and encouraged us to continue the service. He contributed Uganda Shillings 4.6million to support our activities.

We then wound up the day with a fellowship at the Ntangaare’s where we ate, drunk and danced to the tunes in celebration of our achievement.

(Lion Gervase dancing with guests)

Sunday morning, we had breakfast and proceeded to distribute pads at Nyakabanga secondary school where our own Lion Grace engaged the students in dance and singing before we distributed pads to the girls and left for our journey back to Kampala.

The SightFirst and Health committee on behalf of the president and the entire membership of the club, would like to thank all those who contributed in one way or the other to make this activity a success. In a special way, we thank the management of Joint Medical Stores and National Medical Stores who gave us medicine, the Management of Fly540, Millennium Tour and Travel Services and Hon. Richard Nduhura who gave us cash contributions towards our activities. We are also greatful to Dr. Charles Ibingira who helped us in transport arrangements as well us linking us to Makerere University School of Health Sciences and the Medical students who did a tremendous job at the camp. We also thank the Management of Kyabugimbi health centre who gave us the facilities and made our work easier. We cannot forget the office of the District Medical officer, Bushenyi, who supplemented our medical team with their staff. Our appreciation also go to Kampala International University, Western Campus who also supported us with their medical personnel. And to all the Lions who sacrificed time and resources to make this camp a success, we are very greatful.

DIABETES AWARENESS WEEK, NOVEMBER 10-16, 2008

Diabetes in children and Adolescents

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a problem where you have too much glucose(Sugar) in the blood.Glucose comes from the food we eat and is needed by the body for energy. The amount of glucose in the blood is controlled by a hormone called insulin, produced in the pancreas. If the body does not have enough insulin, or the insulin is not doing its job properly, there will be high glucose levels in the blood. Sometimes the body cells may be resistant to the effect of insulin, requiring more of it that normal for the same effect.

There are two types of Diabetes. Type 1, where the body is producing no insulin. This type is common in young people. In Type 2, the body does not make enough insulin or the insulin does not work properly. This type is more common withg adults, but is now on the increase in young people. Type 1 usually arises from abnormal antibodies and inflammatory cells that damage the pancreas cells where insulin is made.This abnormality may be genetic or may be a result of certain viral infections, or exposure to environmanetal toxins. Type 2 is more related to age and lifestyle, although other factors like genetics and ethnicity are considered to have a bearing on the risk.

For the first time in history, type 2 diabetes is now more common than Type 1 diabetes in children and adolescents.  Most of these cases are a direct result of poor eating habits, higher body weight and lack of exercise

How do I know I have Diabetes?

Early symptoms of diabetes include weight loss (despite increased appetite), and dehydration exhibited in frequent thirst and high consumption of fluids like water and juices.  Diabetes can also cause fatigue, nausea and vomiting.  Fluctuations in blood sugar levels can lead to blurred vision.  Patients with diabetes are prone to infection of the bladder, skin and vaginal areas. To confirm if you have diabetes or not, visit a medical facility and have your blood sugar level checked by a competent person who will inform you of your status.

Is diabetes preventable?

Type 2 diabetes can be prevented or delayed by keeping weight in control and by increasing physical activity. Eating healthier and at least 30 minutes of physical activity 5 days a week can do wonders in preventing or delaying the disease. Type 1 is a result of an autoimmune process and there is no sure way of preventing it. However, it can be detected in early stages and managed properly. Hence children at a high risk, say due to genetic reasons, should regularly check up and seek assistance from qualified medical personnel.

Is there a cure for diabetes?

Diabetes is chronic and hence cannot be cured.  However, having it is not a death sentence, because it can be managed through healthy eating, physical activity, medication and sometimes insulin injection.  Patients with Type 1 diabetes MUST always have insulin injections.

What if I don’t get treatment for diabetes?

High blood sugar levels can damage body organs and tissues, causing blindness or vision impairment, stroke and heart attack, loss of limbs and kidney failure. Regular health checks are important to avoid these risks.

LIONS have been at the forefront of fighting preventable blindness through SightFirst Programs.  Since 1984, there has been particular interest in Diabetes Awareness because diabetic retinopathy is the leading cause of blindness among people between the ages of 20 and 75.  Diabetic retinopathy happens when the blood vessels of the retina at the back of the eye are damaged.  This usually happens because of high blood sugars or high blood pressure. The Lions International  Diabetes Awareness Day is November 14, and November is Diabetes Awareness Month.  The Lions Club of Kampala Central chose November 10—16 as the Lions Awareness Week for this year. The main activity of the week is to disseminate information about diabetes for people to know how to prevent or delay it, and how to manage it when it finally strikes.

© Lions Club Kampala of Central, 2008

 

THE HEALTH NEWSLETTER - NOVEMBER 2008

DINING FOR HEALTH

October 10, 2008 was another memorable day in the history of service of the Lions Club of Kampala Central.  Club members together with members from other clubs in Kampala and guests, converged at Grand Imperial Hotel to celebrate the World Service Day.  The main event of the day was fundraising for the club’s health activities.  (Above,The Chief Guest, Ln. Shem and his entourage at the dinner)

A total of UgShs8,500,000 (approx. US$5,000) was collected from dinner coupons, donations from Lions and   their guests, and auctioning of items donated by Ln. Heinz Güntner of Ferro Imex Technologies, Arusha.  The Chief guest was the IPDG, Ln. Shem Bageine.  The function was also honoured by PDG, Ln. Polly K. Ndyarugahi, the Region Chairperson and the Zone Chairperson.  Lions and their guests had a wonderful time fellowshipping, feasting and dancing to live band music.  (Above, Ln. IPDG leading the Auctioning of the fundraising items).All the proceeds from the dinner are to be used to buy medicines and sanitary pads for the upcoming medical camps. 

WITH OUR BLOOD, WE SERVE!

The Club members together with the Leos and the general community at Makerere University exhibited their spirit of service by giving the ultimate gift—blood.  This was at a blood donation activity organized at Makerere University on October 18, 2008, in conjunction with the Uganda Blood Transfusion Service.  Up to 50 units of blood were collected that day, and will go a long way in alleviating the dire need of blood for accident victims, malaria patients and delivering mothers in the country.  The day was crowned by the handing over of the Charter for the Leo Club at Makerere University, induction of the Charter Leo Members and installation of the Club Officials.

On Friday, November 7, 2008, all roads will lead to Kagadi in Kibaale District.  Our first medical camp this year is finally here. The first activity will be distribution of sanitary pads to girls of Notre Dame Academy on Friday at 3:00pm.  The main camp will be on Saturday at St. Ambrose Hospital in Kagadi from 9:00Am to 5:00PM.  We shall take time off that day to visit two more schools where more sanitary pads will be given out.  The day will end with a grand barbeque and fellowship.

THOUGHT FOR FOOD

In 1908, a Japanese chemist discovered a substance that can enhance the taste of any food, in the name of monosodium glutamate (MSG). Today, MSG is added to soups, chips, fast and frozen foods, pre-packaged dinners and canned food.  It is sometimes disguised as vegetable protein or natural flavouring.  Other taste enhancers include aspartame, cysteine and aspartic acid. Studies have shown that these enhancers not only stimulate the taste buds, but also brain neurons which become very excited until they reach a state of extreme exhaustion, dying off suddenly., hence damaging the brain. They are generally excitotoxins. Taste enhancers have also been found to contribute to obesity and brain retardation of children. In addition, they are associated with diseases like arthritis, Alzheimer’s and cancer.    So look out for those food labels and avoid anything associated with taste enhancement. Or better still avoid processed food.

FIRST AID FOR POISONING             

Get the victim away from the poison. If the poison is in solid form, such as pills, remove it from the victim’s mouth using a clean cloth wrapped around your finger. Don’t try this with infants as it may force the poison down the throat.  If the poison is a gas, you may need a respirator to protect yourself. Then remove the victim from the area and take to fresh air. If the poison is corrosive to the skin, remove clothing from the affected area and flush with water for 30 minutes.  If the poison is in contact with the eyes, flush with clean water for at least 15 minutes

FIGHTING BLINDNESS

The Club’s fight against preventable blindness continued last month with 80 people being operated to remove cataracts, and 100 receiving free spectacles.  This was at Bweyogerere-Kirinya Health Centre, on October 28th and 29th. The spectacles were donated by Opticals House.

CONDOLENCE MESSAGE: 

The Health Newsletter Editorial shares in grief of the passing of the Charter President of the Lions Club of Kampala North, the Late Ln. Abdul Masaaba, who perished in a road accident on the night of October 17, 2008. May the Lord rest his soul in eternal peace (Right, Ln. Abdul handing over the club Presidency to Ln, Andrew)

HEALTH HUMOUR

Doctor: We need to get these people to a hospital

Nurse: What is it?

Doctor: It is a big building with many doctors,  but that’s not important now 

Prepared by the SightFirst and Health Committee of the Lions Club of Kampala Central

Chairman: Ln. Eng. Dans N. Naturinda

V/Chairman: Ln. Venie Tinkumanya

Members: Ln. Kenneth Kintu and Ln. R. Ndyanabo

To contact  us: lionsclubofkampalacentral@gmail.com

 Blog Administrator: Ln. Emmanuel Kansiime Muntu

 

 

Health Newsletter- October 2008

NUTRITION SIMPLIFIED

Reading and hearing about the health risks associated with the food we eat, one is tempted to think that the human race is indeed cursed.  This is so, because it is the food we like most, that is usually associated with the so-called lifestyle diseases, considered a serious threat to human life in these modern times.  As a result, we live in great fear of what we eat, because, more often than not, we cannot resist the temptation to eat what we like, in spite of the risks. 

That fear now belongs to the annals of history, after sharing invaluable information with a renowned nutritionist, Ms Grace Canada, who was the guest speaker at the Club’s Business Meeting of September.  It turns out that we can actually enjoy whatever food we like without exposing ourselves to the associated risks, by taking simple precautions.

Food clogging in our body systems is the beginning of the risks and should be minimized. It is important to feed your body with just as much food as is necessary to keep it functioning and healthy.  This can be done without necessarily ’counting the calories’, but by understanding the body requirements at different times.  Your breakfast should be laden with energy giving foods, preferably carbohydrates, since your body requires most of the energy during the day, when you are active.  Lunch, should be lighter and more balanced.  Body repairs usually take place at night when you are resting, hence your last meal should consist mainly of proteins, and should be light to minimize digestive activity that may make your sleep discomforting. But you may happen to be at a party and you end up feasting, and you are going to sleep after. Not to worry; now you have even a stronger reason to dance yourself lame, because all that carbohydrate load must be burned down before you retire to sleep, lest you have it stored, and may clog your body systems!  You can also have five light meals throughout the day and keep that waistline in shape.

We all (except vegetarians) crave for meat in different forms; and yes we can still have it all the time.  However, that meat is still tasty without the fat; so ensure it is trimmed off and the meat is lean. Drain the meat of all the blood as it may be carrying some diseases. And the chicken; no problem, but its taste is not about that skin and you wont have any worries if the skin is removed.  Sometimes the oil is necessary for a delicious meal, but use it sparingly and avoid oils that are solid at room temperature, such as coconut and palm oils.  Olive oil is the best.  And if you can’t miss the omelette, you can even have it everyday; but it is still an omelette even without the yolk, if you are to eat it without any worries.

You can get all your vitamins from fresh fruits and vegetables. Take supplements only on the doctor’s advice. Prepare your juice from fresh fruits rather than the packed juices that are laden with sugar and acidic preservatives.  Raw vegetables and fruits are good but must be avoided if you are HIV+ because they increase the risk of opportunistic infections.  This is also the case with meat that is not fully prepared.

By the way, exercises will do you good to avoid the clog and to remain healthy.  This can be as simple as walking around and stretching, and yes, hitting the dance floor! So cast your worries aside and enjoy your food with these simple precautions. Remember to have your food prepared from scratch if you can; you will realize processed foods aren’t necessary.

 

Health Alert!

Carbon Monoxide Strikes

In our health newsletter of August we highlighted the danger of carbon monoxide poisoning. The New Vision newspaper of September 25 reported a clear victim of such poisoning. We bring you the story, pasted below, to demonstrate that this is a real danger so that we can help inform the public and those close to us to avoid exposure to the risk.

THE CLUB’S FIGHT AGAINST PREVENTABLE BLINDNESS

The Club held a medical camp at Kayunga Health Centre on 11th, 12th and 15th September and 104 people underwent cataract operations.

A total of 254 had been operated  in July and August; hence the total number to date is 358. This is an average of 120 operations per month, which is over the planned 100.

The next eye camp will be at a health centre in Bweyogerere on October 28th and 29th.

STOP PRESS! The medical camp in Kagadi will be held on November 8, 2008.  A second medical camp will be in Isingiro on February 28, 2009. The fundraising dinner for the health activities will be on October 10, 2008, 6:00PM at Grand Imperial Hotel.  Come, with friends, and support the club to achieve its goals for the year.

IPDG Ln. Shem Bageine receives his progressive MJF pin for his contribution towards CSFII