Uganda Day 4: Surgical Success and Community Connections

Day 4 brought another incredible surge of surgical activity at Lacor Hospital. Dr. Lisa Strout and Rob Kahn worked tirelessly across two operating rooms, completing eight urology cases that will transform the lives of their patients.

Meanwhile, our plastic and reconstructive surgery team performed four critical procedures, including a beautiful cleft lip repair on 7-year-old Wishdom—a surgery that will not only improve his ability to eat and speak but will undoubtedly boost his confidence as he grows up.

Throughout the day, we passed through the courtyard outside the hospital entrance where families wait—sometimes for days on end—while their loved ones are being cared for at Lacor. It’s a constant scene here: people camping with their belongings, cooking small meals, and simply waiting. The reality is that many families travel long distances to reach the hospital and have nowhere else to go while their relatives are being cared for inside.

Some of our team had the privilege of visiting St. Jude Children’s Home, where we met dozens of children who have been abandoned at various ages for different heartbreaking reasons. Many of these resilient children live with developmental delays, yet their spirits remain bright and welcoming. The most inspiring story of the day came from Otim, one of the lead nurses who helps care for these children. Remarkably, Otim himself was abandoned and dropped off at this very orphanage in 2006 when he was just 6 years old. Today, he has come full circle—returning as a home health nurse who delivers vaccines and provides care to the local community after studying nursing at Lacor. His journey from abandoned child to healthcare hero embodies the incredible resilience and hope that defines this place.

We had wonderful moments with the children, conducting a dental hygiene clinic and distributing toothbrushes and toothpaste to eager students. The real hit of the day, however, was passing out colorful sunglasses—the kids’ excitement was absolutely infectious! Before leaving, we visited the shop where mothers who help care for the children create beautiful handmade items. Knowing that all proceeds support the orphanage made our shopping even more meaningful. We ended the day with a delicious dinner at our hotel, reflecting on our days and sharing our excitement for the remainder of our trip.