Dr. Julie Etienne Goes Beyond Care: Bridging Knowledge and Healing in Uganda

A mission in Kasana–Luwero that combined medical care, education, and training to expand access to health and inspire the next generation of healthcare professionals.

[March, 2026; Luwero, Uganda] Dr. Julie Etienne provides instruction to continuing education students. [Image: Filmotropico, Jorge Plazas]

In early March 2026, I joined the Stand Up To Poverty medical mission in Kasana, Luwero, Uganda. This marked my fourth journey with the group, but unlike previous times, our work was centered in Bishop Ceaser Asili Memorial Hospital. A year before this mission, I met Sister Ernestine Akulu, the hospital administrator, who opened my eyes to the enormous challenges faced by the community: limited access to care, gaps in disease prevention, and the difficulty of keeping both staff and patients informed with up-to-date health guidelines.

Realizing that medical services alone wouldn’t suffice, I committed to providing education alongside care. Together with Dr. Joelle Molier Desir, we developed a comprehensive lecture on HIV management, including PEP and PrEP, tailored to the latest global standards. The session was warmly received by hospital staff and students, who appreciated the knowledge shared. But I wanted to do more.

To reach more people, I created seventeen educational videos on essential health topics - from handwashing and puberty changes to cancer screenings and birth control methods. These videos played in the hospital’s waiting areas, empowering patients with vital health information.

Additionally, the hospital’s nursing students participated in a cardiopulmonary resuscitation class led by Dr. Majory David-Antoine and myself. Over 60 students attended, and many earned certifications, fueled by their eagerness to learn and serve their community.

This mission was deeply fulfilling. Beyond providing care, I helped bridge knowledge gaps and inspire future healthcare workers. The people of Kasana Luwero welcomed us with open arms, showing resilience and respect despite their hardships. Our team worked seamlessly, united in purpose.

Reflecting on this experience, I feel humbled and honored to contribute to such meaningful work. The Uganda mission was more than a medical outreach. It was a shared journey of healing, education, and hope.