By Lorraine Anyango.

The Neuro Camp is back, and once again, it’s making a significant impact on lives. The theaters at JOOTRH are bustling with activity as four patients are scheduled for surgeries today.

“We keep returning because there’s a genuine need,” said Dr. Bethwell Raori, a neurosurgeon from the USA. “Our passion is to transfer care, service, and knowledge to help people.”

Sharmaine Morrison, a nurse specializing in neuro spine procedures from the USA, echoed Raori’s sentiment. “The people are so grateful. This is my fifth time participating in the Neuro Camp, and my first was in 2018.”

For Morrison, mission trips are a way to give back. “We could write a book about the gratitude we receive. The things we often discard in the UK can be repurposed here to change lives.”

The September 2024 Neuro Camp aims to provide solutions for brain and spinal diseases and is expected to benefit approximately 40 screened patients.

Held every three months, the camp is an initiative of the Kisumu Neuroscience Initiative, in partnership with Kisumu County, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital, and Dokis Advice.

Over the ten-day camp, specialized nurses and theater staff from around the world will be offering their services. The local team, including Dr. Lee Gudtha and orthopedic surgeon Dr. Walter Adero, will also be providing their expertise.

The team has brought a comprehensive supply of equipment, including operating room instruments, nails, screws for the spine, and other essentials to ensure the success of the surgeries.

Accompanying Raori are operating room nurses, scrub assistants, and a global invasive spine representative.