story By Sherine Atieno and pictures by Ogega Ondari                                                                                              Judith Auma, a 45-year-old resident of Alego, Siaya County, is finally finding relief after a long battle with debilitating back pain for over a year and a half.

Following a life-changing spine surgery during the ongoing neurosurgical camp at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH), she is now on the road to recovery, regaining hope for a life free from pain that once confined her to bed.

Ms. Auma’s ordeal began after a seemingly simple but life-changing accident. One rainy day, she slipped on a muddy road and fell hard. What initially seemed like a minor injury soon became a nightmare. Despite being prescribed pain relievers at the hospital, the relief was only temporary. Her condition deteriorated to the point that standing or walking upright was impossible as she could only move in a bent posture.

“People started noticing the change in my posture, and a friend once asked me what was happening,” Ms. Auma recalls.

Four months ago, her condition took a devastating turn. She lost the ability to walk, sit, or even stand without assistance. Once a vibrant businesswoman and tailor, Ms. Auma was forced to abandon her craft. Financial strain hit hard as she became fully dependent on her husband for daily needs.

Desperate for answers, she sought treatment at Siaya County Referral Hospital, where a CT scan revealed a severe spinal condition. In December, she was referred to JOOTRH, where an MRI confirmed the same diagnosis. Doctors recommended urgent neurosurgery, which was scheduled for January. It was at this time that she learnt about the exciting news of Neurocamp. This was her chance to thrive and she grasped it with both hands. She had faith in the expertise of professionals performing these life-changing procedures.

The eight-hour surgery marked a turning point in Ms. Auma’s life. Though her legs are still weak, she can now sit up in bed, indeed a significant improvement. With physiotherapy sessions already underway, she feels optimistic about her recovery.

Ms. Auma’s gratitude is immense as she speaks about the compassionate care she received. The neurosurgical team at the hospital and medical staff have given her another chance at life.

Set to be discharged in three days, Ms. Auma looks forward to regaining full independence and resuming her tailoring business. She now urges others suffering from back pain and other spine or brain conditions not to suffer in silence.

“Seek help at JOOTRH. There are specialists ready to help you,” she advises.

As the neurosurgery camp continues until February 5th, it offers hope to many patients with spine and brain conditions. For Auma, it is the beginning of a new chapter filled with possibilities.