Health Team

Uganda teen's surgery a success

Patrick Kahuma, 18, of western Uganda, was released from UNC Children’s Hospital Tuesday.

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CHAPEL HILL, N.C. — Patrick Kahuma, 18, of western Uganda, was released from UNC Children’s Hospital Tuesday.

Through the support of a local charity, Embrace Uganda, Kahuma was able to have surgery to repair two heart defects.

Kahuma, an orphan, was unable to get the treatment he needed in his home country.

Kahuma grew up in the remote village of Kaihura which has no running water or electricity.

Doctors at UNC Children's Hospital did the procedure at a discounted rate. The rest of the bill will be covered by donations.

Once his heart is healthy, Kahuma plans to return to school. He dropped out in the second grade because his heart couldn’t handle the two-mile walk to school.

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