After My Spinal Injury, Supporting My Children’s Education Became My Biggest Challenge

When a spinal injury happens, life changes in ways one can never fully prepare for. The physical pain is difficult enough, but the emotional and financial strain that follows can be overwhelming. For many survivors, like myself, one of the hardest realities to face is the struggle to continue supporting our families — especially our children’s education.

Before my injury, I was the breadwinner for my family. I worked hard to ensure my children stayed in school and had the opportunities I never had. But after my spinal injury, everything changed. I could no longer do the same work, my income stopped, and medical expenses quickly drained what little savings I had left. Suddenly, paying school fees — something I once did with pride — became a heavy burden.

Life After the Injury: A New Reality
Living with a spinal injury is not only about learning to move differently; it’s about rebuilding your life from the ground up. I had to adjust to limited mobility, ongoing pain, and dependence on others for daily needs. Yet, what weighed on me most was the thought of my children missing school because of my condition.

Their education is their future — and every parent dreams of giving their children a better life. But when disability strikes, that dream becomes uncertain. Many parents with spinal injuries in Uganda face similar struggles, caught between the cost of rehabilitation, medication, and school fees.

“I want my children to stay in school, but sometimes I must choose between buying medicine or paying tuition,” shared another member of the Spinal Injuries Association of Uganda (SIA Uganda).

The Ripple Effect of Disability
A spinal injury affects more than one person — it impacts entire families. When a parent becomes disabled, household income often drops drastically. Children may have to stay home from school, or older ones may start working to support the family. The emotional toll can also be immense, as children witness their parents’ pain and struggle.

That’s why social and economic support for spinal injury survivors is so important. Beyond medical care, survivors need opportunities to regain financial independence — through vocational training, microfinance support, and community empowerment programs.

The Role of SIA Uganda
The Spinal Injuries Association of Uganda (SIA Uganda) has been a beacon of hope for many survivors. Through rehabilitation, advocacy, and community support, SIA Uganda helps individuals with spinal injuries rebuild their lives with dignity.

However, the need remains vast. Many survivors still lack access to assistive devices, education support for their children, and sustainable income opportunities. Expanding these programs could transform lives — giving families stability and restoring hope for the next generation.

Moving Forward with Hope
Despite the challenges, I remain hopeful. My children continue to inspire me every day. Their determination to study, even when times are hard, reminds me why I must keep fighting — not just for myself, but for them.

“Disability doesn’t mean the end of dreams,” I tell them. “It means we must find new ways to reach them.”
I share my story not for pity, but to raise awareness. Many parents like me are struggling silently, trying to keep their children’s education alive. Together, through compassion, advocacy, and community support, we can make sure no child misses school because of a parent’s disability.

A Call to Action
SIA Uganda continues to call on the government, NGOs, and the public to support education access for families affected by spinal injuries. Providing scholarships, vocational opportunities, and financial aid can make all the difference.

Empowering one parent means securing the future of many children. And when we lift one family, we strengthen the entire community.