Back on the Path to Productivity After Corrective Spinal Surgery

Story by Sherine Atieno and Photos by Lorraine Faith “I hope to get back to my work and provide for my family again,” says Wickliffe Odhiambo Adoma, 35, as he recovers in Ward 3A at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH) following a successful spinal procedure. By his bedside is his wife, offering constant care and reassurance as he begins his journey toward recovery. Mr. Adoma, an electrician and motorcycle rider from Migori, sustained severe back injuries in June 2024 after his motorbike accidentally collided with road barriers that had been erected during the Gen Z demonstrations while he was heading home from work. The impact left him unconscious for three days. Upon regaining consciousness, he was diagnosed with spinal fractures that later progressed to kyphosis, resulting in a noticeable forward curvature of his spine. Although physiotherapy enabled him to walk with support, he continued to experience persistent pain, particularly during movement or physical exertion. He was unable to lift heavy loads or ride a motorcycle, effectively cutting off both his primary and supplementary sources of income. His search for specialized care led him to Kisumu County Referral Hospital, where an X-ray was performed before he was referred to JOOTRH for orthopaedic review. An orthopaedic specialist advised that his spinal deformity required corrective surgery. He later learned about the February Neurosurgical Camp through the consultant’s clinic and enrolled for treatment. Admitted on 16th February, Mr. Adoma has since undergone successful corrective spinal surgery. He expressed gratitude to the specialist team for their professionalism and dedication, noting their consistent ward reviews despite ongoing procedures in theatre, and commended the hospital’s cleanliness for supporting patient comfort and recovery. So far, 15 patients have successfully undergone surgery during the ongoing camp, with more procedures scheduled before it concludes on 20th February. The initiative is organized by the Kisumu Neuroscience Initiative in partnership with JOOTRH to expand access to quality neurosurgical care in Kisumu. Conducted three times a year, the February camp is led by Dr. Victor Awuor alongside resident neurosurgeons Dr. Lee Ogutha, Dr. Owiti William and Dr. Arthur Okembo, working with orthopaedic surgeons and a multidisciplinary team.

Back on the Path to Productivity After Corrective Spinal Surgery

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