By Frank Kamuntu
Peter Mpagi Jr., a former American football defensive end for the Texas Longhorns, has made significant contributions to heart health in Uganda, donating $1,200 each to Dr. Samuel Mugambe and Dr. Judith Namuyonga, totaling $2,400.
Born to Ugandan parents Peter Kasule Mpagi Sr., a businessman, and Ruth Kaitesi Katto, a nurse working with children with disabilities, Mpagi Jr. began playing American football at the age of 5 in the United States, excelling in the sport throughout his high school career. He received 25 scholarship offers from top universities, ultimately choosing the University of Texas. However, his football career was cut short due to an enlarged heart condition that required surgery. In 2020, Mpagi Jr. underwent a successful heart transplant, receiving a new heart from a donor. This life-changing experience inspired him to found “Mpagi’s Heart,” a non-profit organization dedicated to raising awareness and funds for heart disease research and treatment.
Since his surgery, Mpagi Jr., now 23, has donated over $240,000 to heart institutions through his foundation. He has also been running American football camps, donating the proceeds to various causes, and dreams of starting an American football academy in Uganda to promote the sport while giving back to the community.
“I came here to make a difference and help improve the lives of those affected by heart disease,” Mpagi Jr. said. “Every donation, no matter how small, can make a significant impact on someone’s life. My goal is to ensure that no one has to go through what I experienced without support.”
Mpagi Jr. revisited the hospital for a review of his heart condition, an emotional moment as he reflected on his journey from illness to recovery. He expressed gratitude for the care he received and reaffirmed his commitment to helping others facing similar challenges.
Dr. Judith Namuyonga, a pediatric cardiologist and congenital echocardiologist consultant, emphasized the importance of such contributions, saying, “This donation is a timely intervention, and we appeal to other organizations and individuals to support our cause. Congenital Heart Disease is the most common congenital abnormality in children and the most common heart disease affecting them. We need more resources to address the complications and difficulties our facilities face in handling these cases.”
Dr. Samuel Mugambe, a heart patient and lecturer at Health Tutors’ College Mulago’s Department of Biomedical Sciences, expressed gratitude for Mpagi Jr.’s donation, which will enable him to continue his vital work in cardiovascular health.
Mpagi Jr.’s mother, Ruth Kaitesi Katto, attended a thanksgiving service at St. Andrew’s Church in Bukoto, where Mpagi Jr. shared his story, nearly breaking down in tears. She expressed her gratitude to God for the miracle of her son’s new heart. “I am thankful to God for the gift of life, and I am proud of my son for using his experience to help others,” said Katto.
Peter Kasule Mpagi Sr. expressed pride in his son’s resilience and generosity. “We are proud of our son’s resilience and generosity,” he said. “We thank God for his second chance at life and support his endeavors to give back to the community.”
Dr. Theopista Sekitto, Uganda’s Country Director of New Faces New Voices, also attended the thanksgiving service and applauded Mpagi Jr.’s gesture. “As a parent and activist, I am touched by Peter’s story, and I appeal to the government and private sector to invest more in heart health research and treatment,” she said. “We need to address the challenges our facilities face in handling heart complications, and donations like Peter’s are a step in the right direction.”
Mpagi Jr.’s family was present at the thanksgiving service, filled with messages of hope under the theme “Hope amidst challenges.” He mentioned that the gesture will be repeated every year, hopefully with a greater impact. “I am committed to returning every year to make these donations,” Mpagi Jr. added. “I want to see a future where everyone has access to the care they need, and my foundation will continue to support heart health initiatives in Uganda and the United States.”
Mpagi Jr. has hopes of running American football camps and heart medical workshops free for Ugandans in the future. The thanksgiving service was a testament to Mpagi Jr.’s resilience and courage, inspiring others to take action against heart disease. His legacy extends beyond football, and his impact will be felt for generations to come.
Heart disease remains a significant health challenge in Uganda, with congenital heart disease being the most common congenital abnormality in children. Access to specialized care and resources is limited, making donations and support from organizations and individuals crucial for improving outcomes and saving lives.
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