Family and friends have come together to organize special thanksgiving prayers for Jose Chameleone following his return to Uganda. The singer walked back into the country on April 12 after a medical stay in the United States, where he had been undergoing treatment.
A warm reception awaited him at Entebbe International Airport. Loved ones, fans, and supporters gathered in large numbers, creating an atmosphere filled with celebration and relief. Chameleone, seemingly in improved health, was seen smiling and interacting with those who came to welcome him.
He had been in the U.S. for treatment of pancreatitis, a condition involving inflammation of the pancreas — the organ located behind the stomach that plays a crucial role in digestion and hormone regulation. Although there have been widespread claims that heavy alcohol consumption caused the illness, Chameleone refuted the idea that alcohol was the sole culprit.
Speaking alongside his brother, the singer explained that doctors pointed to multiple contributing factors. These included chronic stress, genetic predisposition, and insufficient sleep. He acknowledged that lifestyle choices can have a major impact on health, but he urged people not to focus solely on alcohol as the reason for his health scare.
Stress, he said, was a significant contributor. Constant pressure from both personal and professional responsibilities had taken a toll on him over time. In addition, he mentioned that genetic traits and a demanding lifestyle with irregular sleep patterns also contributed to his condition.
Before flying to the U.S., Chameleone revealed that his pancreas had deteriorated to the point that it was no longer producing the enzymes needed for food digestion. This led to his doctors performing surgery to remove damaged tissue. To support his recovery, he was placed on a potent medication known as Creone, which aids in digestion by replacing lost enzymes. A three-month supply of this medicine cost him up to Shs 30 million, underlining the severity of his condition.
Although alcohol and gallstones are among the most common causes of pancreatitis, there are many other potential triggers. In Chameleone’s case, it appears that several risk factors worked together. Aside from stress and genetics, the lack of proper rest was believed to have significantly weakened his system.
Other, less typical causes of pancreatitis can include physical trauma to the abdomen — such as from a car accident — previous surgeries involving the pancreas, or reactions to certain medications.
Chameleone’s recovery journey has been physically and emotionally demanding, but he now looks forward to regaining his full strength. The thanksgiving prayers being held this week are not just about gratitude for his survival, but also a moment of reflection and hope for continued healing.
For now, the singer seems determined to take better care of his health and focus on positive changes in his lifestyle. He also expressed appreciation to everyone who stood by him during the difficult months, including his family, fans, and medical team.
