Edema Support Foundation

Welcome to Edema Support Foundation Uganda ( ESFU )

At Edema Support Foundation Uganda, we are dedicated to supporting individuals living with lymphedema, podoconiosis, and other chronic edema conditions. Our mission is to provide medical care, education, and advocacy to improve the quality of life for those affected. Join us in raising awareness, promoting early intervention, and ensuring access to essential treatment. Together, we can build a healthier and more inclusive future for all. You Are Not Alone—We Are Here to Support You!

About Us

Edema Support Foundation (ESFU ), We are dedicated to raising awareness, advocating for better care, and providing affordable, locally sourced solutions for managing edema across Africa. We collaborate with communities, healthcare providers, and policymakers to empower individuals with edema, ensuring access to quality care and sustainable economic opportunities.

Our ServiceS

At Edema Support Foundation (ESFU ), we provide essential services to support individuals living with edema and lymphedema

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Medical & Surgical Camps 🏥

• We organize medical and surgical camps to provide treatment, education, and support to individuals affected by edema/lymphedema. Our camps include:

Compression Therapy & Supplies 🎗️

• We work to make affordable, locally produced compression supplies available for long-term edema management.

Community Support & Awareness 💙

• We believe in empowering individuals with knowledge and emotional support. Our initiatives include:

Our Causes

Why We Exist: Fighting Stigma, Ignorance & Barriers to Care for Edema Patients

African Myths & Witchcraft

The Dangerous lies in misinformation, keeps patients from getting the right care

Systemic Neglect

Despite its severe impact, edema / lymphedema remains excluded from Uganda’s national health programs, leaving thousands without access to affordable or life-saving care.

little Knowledge about the condition

On both the medical professional and the victims,

Too many people do not understand edema,/ lymphedema and by the time they seek help, their condition has worsened beyond repair.

Stigma & Discrimination

The Unseen Wound beyond the physical pain, edema patients suffer emotionally and socially

The Urgent Need for Locally Sourced Management Materials

During our previous medical camps, we realized that most lymphedema management materials—such as compression bandages, skincare products, and specialized footwear—are imported. The high cost makes them unaffordable for many Ugandans, leaving patients without essential care.

Education to everyone

Knowledge is power, and we empower patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers

VOLUNTEERS

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HELPED PEOPLE

Promoting eco-friendly practices

Become a Volunteer

Helped People

ESFU Care is changing lives

Patient 201

There was a time when I had completely given up on life. My leg was so swollen and heavy, it felt like I was carrying a burden I could no longer bear. I stopped going to work, I withdrew from my community, and I lost hope that anything could change. Every day was a painful reminder of what I had lost — my mobility, my dignity, and my purpose.

Kajjansi, Uganda

Patient 87

I started experiencing unexplained swelling in my lymph nodes back in 2015. After a few weeks, the swelling spread to my ankle and gradually worsened. I visited several hospitals, but every diagnosis I received was incorrect—no one seemed to understand what was happening to my leg. Out of desperation, I turned to herbal remedies and even traditional beliefs, hoping for a solution.

Ntwetwe, Kyankwanzi District

Patient 68

My journey with this condition began seven years ago when my leg started swelling. I sought help from hospitals, but all I was ever given were painkillers—no answers, no lasting relief. The swelling continued to worsen until my leg eventually burst open and developed septic wounds. I was in pain, confused, and had even turned to herbs and traditional beliefs, hoping for a cure.

Mutungo Parish, Nakawa Division, Kampala District

Patient 32

For a long time, I lived in silence and shame. After developing lymphedema, my life changed drastically. What started as swelling in my leg turned into a painful, isolating journey. My husband left me. I was abandoned and rejected — not just by the man I loved, but by many in the community. I became the subject of gossip, fear, and stigma.

Mityana District, Uganda

Patient 100

In 2016, during my pregnancy, I noticed swelling starting from my hip. I attributed it to the pregnancy, believing it would subside after childbirth. However, the swelling persisted, leading me to seek medical attention at the hospital, where I received little clarity. In search of relief, I also turned to prayer, hoping for healing.

Mukono, uganda

Patient 55

My journey with lymphedema began when I was just 10 years old. The swelling started in one leg and eventually affected both, becoming more pronounced during the day. The visible nature of my condition led to severe stigma; classmates and community members cruelly referred to me as having ‘elephant legs.’ The emotional toll was overwhelming, and I felt compelled to drop out of school to escape the constant ridicule.

Kiwatule, Kampala District

About Us

Our ServiceS

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Our Causes

Education to everyone

Helped People

Our Partners