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Story perspectives

Ugandan Mother Balances Farming and Care for Disabled Son

3/21/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Martha Apolot, a 21-year-old mother in Owalai, Uganda, cares for her eight-year-old son Aaron, who has an undiagnosed disability that limits mobility and communication.
She carries Aaron to the fields where she works to provide constant care.
Her life changed after she was raped at age 13, leading to a complicated pregnancy.
Martha recalls the joy of seeing Aaron for the first time and continues balancing work and caregiving.

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Story summary

Martha Apolot, a 21-year-old mother in Owalai, Uganda, cares for her eight-year-old son Aaron, who has an undiagnosed disability that limits mobility and communication.
She carries Aaron to the fields where she works to provide constant care.
Her life changed after she was raped at age 13, leading to a complicated pregnancy.
Martha recalls the joy of seeing Aaron for the first time and continues balancing work and caregiving.