Upright Africa

07/14/2026

Every wheelchair represents more than mobility—it represents dignity, opportunity, and hope.

This week, we had the privilege of delivering two wheelchairs to young people in Mumena Chiefdom whose lives will be changed by this simple but life-changing gift.

One wheelchair was provided to a 12-year-old boy living with osteomyelitis, while the second was delivered to an 18-year-old young man living with a neuromuscular condition. For both families, these wheelchairs mean greater independence, improved access to education and community life, and renewed hope for the future.

Our heartfelt thanks go to Kalpana, whose generous donation made these gifts possible. Your kindness is making a real and lasting difference.

We also extend our sincere appreciation to our dedicated Upright Africa Foundation Zambia medical team and to Chief Mumena and the Royal Establishment, whose commitment to identifying those most in need ensures that support reaches the right people.

Humanitarian work is strongest when compassionate people come together with a shared purpose. Thank you to everyone who continues to stand with us as we bring hope, healing, and practical support to communities across Zambia.

07/10/2026

⚽🇨🇩 Celebrating Hope Through Football

When the DR Congo captured the world’s attention during their unforgettable World Cup journey, they gave people something priceless: hope.

Thanks to the generosity of W.E.R. and Jeff & Diane Reagan, that hope was shared with the children and families at Provide Hope in Action through a wonderful community celebration. Eighty-five people came together, including 65 children and youth apprentices, parents, members of the REHEMA Humanitarian Hospital Management Committee, and the Avenue Chief.

The day was filled with laughter, fellowship, and an incredible feast featuring chicken, tilapia, goat meat, grilled skewers, fried plantains, Bisamunyu, green peas, French fries, fresh salad, fruit juice, soft drinks, and bottled water.

To ensure every family could take part, each parent also received transportation support.

In a region too often defined by conflict, displacement, disease, and hardship, moments like these remind us that joy is worth celebrating. Football united a nation, and the kindness of W.E.R. and Jeff & Diane Reagan transformed that pride into smiles, full stomachs, and lasting memories for children who deserve moments of happiness.

From all of us at Upright Africa and every family who shared this special day—thank you, W.E.R. and Jeff & Diane Reagan, for making this celebration possible.

Together, we don’t just meet needs—we restore hope. ❤️🇨🇩

06/28/2026

🇨🇩 Congratulations, DR Congo! ⚽

What a proud moment as the Leopards advance to the next round of the FIFA World Cup, inspiring not only a nation but an entire continent.

At Upright Africa Foundation, we are privileged to work alongside communities across the DRC, witnessing every day the same resilience, determination, and hope that has been on display on the football field.

As the country celebrates this historic achievement, we celebrate with them and remain committed to helping build healthier, stronger communities.

Congratulations, DRC—Africa is proud! 🇨🇩❤️

AfricaRising

06/22/2026

As Ebola continues to spread across eastern DRC, our commitment at Upright Africa remains unchanged. We continue to look for every possible way to support those on the front lines of this crisis.

Together with WER and Provide Hope in Action, two containers of vital PPE are now being prepared for delivery to both occupied and unoccupied territories at the heart of the outbreak, helping protect healthcare workers and communities facing this devastating disease.

Many of you have reached out with concerns for my personal safety, and I truly appreciate your messages. Please be assured that I will not be entering the affected areas until the appropriate authorities have declared it safe to do so.

We had been planning a surgical campaign in Goma in the coming months, but those plans will, of course, be guided by the situation on the ground.

Thank you to everyone who has kept me, my team, and the people of eastern DRC in your thoughts and prayers during this incredibly challenging time. Your support and encouragement mean a great deal to all of us.

05/23/2026

In 2024, our surgical team treated a man with a severe facial deformity in Walungu, eastern Congo.

Yesterday, we returned — this time to deliver food aid in an active Ebola zone — and he was there.

Standing among the crowd. Smiling. Unrecognizable from who he was before.

No words from our team. Just tears.

This is what the work is for. Not the logistics, not the reports, not the donor calls — though all of it matters. It’s for the moment a man you once treated walks toward you healthy, dignified, and alive.

Walungu is still dangerous. The Ebola outbreak hasn’t ended. The conflict hasn’t stopped. Our teams move through it anyway, because the people there don’t get to leave.
Thank you to WER for the food donation, and to Provide Hope in Action for making the delivery possible. And thank you to everyone who funds, shares, and believes in this work.

Eastern Congo is still here. So are we.

03/31/2026

John Woods had the privilege of sitting down with Kerstin Lindquist for an episode of the StREST Podcast. Known for her blend of faith, health, and real-life conversation, Kerstin leads an honest and thoughtful discussion on navigating stress, purpose, and everyday resilience. It’s a grounded, uplifting episode—perfect for anyone looking to reset and refocus. Check it out here!

This is StRest! Kerstin Lindquist sits down with John Woods — founder of Upright Africa, medical humanitarian, and longtime orthopedic spine surgery first as...

03/29/2026

Upright Africa is back in full swing.

Led by Dr. Alain Muka and Dr. Leo Pwele, alongside our anesthesia team Jean Claude and Wasilota, we began surgeries on Thursday working side by side with the dedicated staff at Solwezi General Hospital. Together, we are doing what we can to ease the burden on an already overcapacity hospital. This mission is a true team effort.

One of the first cases was a 6-year-old girl suffering from a massive kidney tumor. Nearly 10 pounds were removed. She is now stable and already on the road to recovery.

Moments like this remind us why we do what we do. Give your children an extra hug today—and say a prayer they never face such a challenge.

03/14/2026

Happy to report I was able to recover my account and now back in control. Apologies for the messages if anyone received and thanks for following along on our continued adventures. Some days are better than others.

03/14/2026

Urgent message from founder John Woods. My WhatsApp number has been compromised and unfortunately will be unable to respond and also they will be requesting money. Please don’t send anything I’m ok.

03/07/2026

What a fantastic evening hosted by the French Business Circle (FBC) at Alliance Française.

Our founder, John Woods, had the opportunity to present Upright Africa’s work firsthand to a distinguished audience of Ambassadors, business leaders, and key stakeholders. It was a privilege to share our mission and impact — and the response was incredibly encouraging.

A special thank you to Empower Health for joining the presentation, and to Eric for leading the way and helping make the evening a success.

We are building real momentum in Zambia and continuing to position Upright Africa as a driving force in innovative, high-impact healthcare solutions across the region.