The week-long camp, running from 16th to 20th February, is organized by the Kisumu Neuroscience Initiative in partnership with JOOTRH, bringing together an international team of neurosurgeons working alongside local specialists to provide life-changing surgical care to 50 patients with complex brain and spine conditions.

Among the beneficiaries is Margaret Onyango from Bumala in Busia County, whose journey to healing has been marked by pain, fear and renewed courage.

Margaret first learned about the camp through her sister, who underwent a successful spinal surgery during the September 2024 Neurocamp at JOOTRH. At that time, her sister had arrived in a wheelchair unable to walk, but after surgery she regained her mobility and independence. Today, that same sister stands by Margaret’s bedside, attending to her in the ward as she is prepared to be wheeled to theatre.

Margaret’s condition began mildly after an earlier accident, allowing her to continue with light household chores. However, a severe fall in May last year worsened her spine injury significantly.

The pain intensified to the point where even getting into bed became difficult. She sought care in Busia where initial imaging was done before she was referred to Bungoma for further evaluation. An MRI confirmed the progression of her condition.

Physiotherapy did not provide relief. Later, at a spinal injury facility in Nairobi, doctors advised urgent surgical intervention and warned that delaying treatment could result in permanent disability. Financial challenges forced the family to return home to seek support.

Fear compounded the delay. Conflicting advice from well-wishers left her hesitant, and she endured the pain quietly despite medical recommendations for surgery. It was her sister’s testimony and recovery that ultimately reassured her. After confirming the Neurocamp dates, Margaret travelled to JOOTRH and was admitted over the weekend. With the cost of surgery covered under the Social Health Authority (SHA), the financial barrier that once hindered her care has been removed.

Now, as theatre preparations are finalized, her sister remains at her side, offering comfort and strength drawn from her own experience. Margaret awaits surgery with hope that this intervention will relieve her persistent pain and restore her ability to walk, stand and resume her normal duties.