Allexer Namundjembo
The family of 23-year-old Martha Uupindi is appealing to the public for financial assistance to help fund life-saving medical treatment in South Africa.
Uupindi, a stylist and TVET student, was diagnosed in 2022 with very severe aplastic anaemia (VSAA).
VSAA is a rare condition in which the bone marrow fails to produce enough blood cells.
The illness has forced her to pause her studies and step away from her beauty salon business, which employs five people.
According to her brother, Goodman Uupindi, the diagnosis changed the family’s life completely.
Since then, Martha has depended on frequent blood transfusions and repeated hospital visits.
“She has been in and out of hospital, and it has placed emotional and financial strain on the family,” he said.
A medical report dated 24 April and seen by the Windhoek Observer states that her condition now requires urgent intervention.
“The most effective and potentially curative treatment for this condition is a bone marrow (stem cell) transplant,” the report states.
The report further warned that without treatment, the disease will continue to worsen and could eventually become fatal.
The transplant is expected to take place in South Africa, where specialised medical facilities are available.
Goodman said Martha is covered by the Public Service Employees Medical Aid Scheme (Psemas), which is expected to cover a significant part of the procedure, but the family still faces costs of more than N$200 000.
“These include travel, accommodation, medications not covered by insurance, and daily living expenses during treatment. In light of these circumstances, we as the family are kindly appealing for any assistance you may be able to provide,” Goodman said.
Despite her illness, Martha said she remains hopeful about the future.
“This life-saving treatment will enable me to continue studying and live my dream life. I hope to expand my business and create more employment opportunities for other young women,” she said.
Doctors have confirmed that one of her brothers is a compatible donor, which has improved her chances of recovery.
“In Ms Uupindi’s case, one of her brothers has been identified as a compatible donor, which significantly improves her chances of recovery,” wrote consultant physician and clinical haematologist Dr Simba in the medical report.
The family is now appealing to members of the public and good samaritans to assist with raising the funds needed for Martha’s treatment.
