18 years of pain ended.

18 years of pain ended.

story by Sherine Atieno and Photos by Ogega Ondari.

Photos and details shared with the informed consent of sources quoted.                                                                                    Eunice Adhiambo, a 49-year-old resident of Nyahera, Kisumu, is overwhelmed with gratitude after undergoing a life-changing neurosurgical procedure.

After enduring 18 years of debilitating pain, Ms. Adhiambo has undergone successful spinal surgery at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH).

“I had lost hope, “I thought I’d be confined to a wheelchair for the rest of my days. She says, her voice filled with emotion. Thanks to the specialists and the entire medical team at JOOTRH for giving her a new lease on life.

Ms. Adhiambo’s wave began 18 years ago when she fell on a slippery staircase, severely injuring her back. The resulting throbbing pain was constant and unbearable. Her legs began to swell, prompting her to seek medical attention. Initial imaging tests, including ultrasounds and heart tests, revealed no serious illness. For years, she lived with the pain, a constant, uninvited companion.

In 2016, the pain intensified dramatically. Her nerves were compressed, and her muscles ached relentlessly. Further tests revealed four spinal dislocations. Episodes of excruciating pain became routine. Then, last year, her condition deteriorated further. She could no longer walk or even bathe herself. Her youngest son became her primary caregiver, balancing schoolwork with caring for his ailing mother. The burden on the family was immense, especially as Ms. Adhiambo’s husband had passed away years ago. Sleep became a rare and precious commodity.

Forced to give up her business in 2022 due to the constant pain, Ms. Adhiambo faced escalating financial strain. She started a WhatsApp fundraising drive to help cover her medical expenses, hoping to afford specialized treatment.

Her turning point came unexpectedly. On Sunday, January 26th, while listening to Radio Namlolwe, a local radio station, she heard an advertisement for an upcoming neurosurgical camp at JOOTRH. The announcement, which aired immediately after she turned on the radio, felt like a sign.  She listened intently, carefully noting the contact information. Determined not to miss this opportunity, she arrived at the hospital early the next day, the first day of the camp. She had missed a previous camp in December because she learned about it too late. This time, she was determined to find relief.

At JOOTRH, Ms. Adhiambo underwent an MRI, which revealed a spinal fracture requiring urgent surgery. Due to the severity of her condition, doctors recommended immediate intervention. She was quickly scheduled for surgery and became one of the first patients to benefit from the camp.

Rhoda Adhiambo, from Nyakach, also found relief from a terrifying medical crisis. Just a month ago, Rhoda experienced her first-ever seizure. The incident occurred at home with her family, who rushed her to a nearby hospital. Two days later, the seizures recurred, and she was transferred to JOOTRH for specialized care. On December 20th, she consulted with a neurosurgeon, and tests revealed a growth on her brain. Surgery was recommended as the best course of action.  Rhoda, has now undergone successful brain surgery thanks to the neurosurgical camp.

The neurosurgical camp, organized by the Kisumu Neuroscience Initiative in collaboration with JOOTRH, is scheduled to conclude on February 5th.  This life-changing initiative has provided surgical care to patients from all walks of life, including children and adults. For both women the camp has meant a chance at a healthier, more hopeful future.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.