Veteran Ugandan dancehall singer Shanks Vivie’D has opened up about a serious health battle, revealing that he is suffering from a lumbar spine condition that may require surgery.
According to the artiste, doctors advised that he undergoes surgery estimated to cost UGX 24 million. For now, Shanks says he is undergoing physiotherapy, hoping it will improve his condition and help him avoid the operation.
Speaking to Tawfiq Media, Shanks disclosed that with support from family and friends, he has so far raised about UGX 10 million. However, if surgery becomes unavoidable, he will still need over UGX 15 million.
In search of help, Shanks said he reached out to Eddy Kenzo, the president of the Ugandan National Musicians Federation (UNMF). Unfortunately, the response was not what he expected.
“I talked to the federation president and he told me there is no budget at the moment. I spoke to him earlier this month. I am a member of the federation, and after explaining my situation, there has been no follow-up,” Shanks said.
“move Your Body” singer added that he shared his MRI results and fully explained his medical condition, but was informed that the federation currently lacks funds to support sick musicians.
With no institutional help forthcoming, Shanks is now appealing to fans, fellow artistes, and the public to support him financially.
He says the contributions will help create standby funds in case surgery becomes necessary.
Stay with us for more updates on this developing story.
