Story by Elizabeth Achieng and Melisha Mbai and Photos by Ian Obadha

A successful colorectal surgery has given 54-year-old Tom Ooko, a resident of Mamboleo in Kisumu County, a renewed sense of hope and a chance to reclaim his life after nearly two years of pain and discomfort. The procedure, performed during the ongoing colorectal camp, marks a major turning point in his health journey.

Mr. Ooko’s health challenges began in 2024 when he started experiencing a series of symptoms that seemed difficult to explain. He suffered from recurring fever, dizziness, mucus in his stool, body itching, and persistent discomfort that would come and go without warning.

At first, he did not consider the symptoms serious enough to warrant specialized medical attention. Like many people, he assumed it was a temporary illness that would eventually resolve on its own.

“I thought it was just a normal sickness,” Mr. Ooko recalls. “Whenever I felt pain or discomfort, I would buy painkillers from a pharmacy to help me feel better. Sometimes the symptoms would disappear and I would think I was recovering, but after some time they would return.”

As months passed, the condition became increasingly difficult to ignore. Mr. Ooko sought help from various hospitals hoping to find answers, but despite multiple visits, the exact cause of his illness remained unclear. The uncertainty was frustrating and emotionally draining as he continued to struggle with recurring symptoms.

The illness gradually began affecting his daily life and livelihood. There were days when he was unable to carry out his normal activities because of the discomfort and weakness caused by the condition.

“It reached a point where I could not work consistently,” he says. “Sometimes I had to stop what I was doing because I was not feeling well. Since December 2025, I have not been able to work because of my health condition.”

For months, Mr. Ooko continued searching for a solution while hoping that one day he would receive the treatment he needed. That opportunity finally came when a friend informed him about the ongoing colorectal camp at JOOTRH.

The camp, which brings together specialists to screen, diagnose, and treat patients with colorectal conditions, offered Mr. Ooko a chance to receive expert care. Upon hearing about it, he wasted no time.

“When my friend told me about the camp, I was very happy,” he says. “I immediately decided to come because I felt this could finally help me understand what was wrong and get treatment.”

Following assessment by the medical team, Mr. Ooko was scheduled for surgery. Yesterday, he successfully underwent a colorectal procedure during which doctors removed haemorrhoids that had contributed to his discomfort.

Now recovering in the hospital, Mr. Ooko says he feels relieved and optimistic about the future.

“The surgery went well, and I am thankful to the doctors and nurses who took care of me. I believe this treatment will help me recover and allow me to return to my normal life,” he says.

Mr. Ooko is using his experience to encourage others who may be suffering in silence. He urges people experiencing similar symptoms not to ignore them or depend solely on over-the-counter medication.

Visit JOOTRH and get checked. There are specialists who can help, and surgery can make a big difference.” He speaks.

He also expressed heartfelt gratitude to the healthcare workers who supported him throughout his treatment journey.

“I sincerely thank Nurse Ann Achola, the staff in Ward 3A, and all the doctors who came for this camp. They have treated me with kindness, professionalism, and care. They gave me hope.” He says with relief.

He also expressed gratitude for the support provided through the Social Health Authority (SHA), which covered the cost of his surgery and hospitalization. “Many people fear seeking treatment because of the cost, but SHA made it possible for me to receive this care. I am grateful that specialized treatment is becoming more accessible to ordinary Kenyans.”

As he recuperates, Mr. Ooko looks forward to returning to work and resuming the activities he has missed for months.