Story By Sherine Atieno.      Photos by Ondari Ogega .

In the hushed moments before surgery, one-year-old Bruno Victor clung tightly to his mother’s arms, his tiny fingers a beacon of strength in a time of uncertainty. A shadow of concern clouded his usually bright eyes, hinting at the complex procedure he was about to face. For his young mother, this day was a poignant mix of fear and unwavering hope.

Bruno’s health had taken a sudden turn just days prior. Persistent fever and constant sweating sent alarm bells ringing for his mother. Rushing him to the Obama Children’s Hospital, she received an initial diagnosis of intestinal gas and pneumonia.

This diagnosis, however, was merely the first hurdle in a series of challenges that would test her resilience as a mother. Further examination revealed a more serious condition. Braxton’s blood count was alarmingly low, necessitating two blood transfusions. The following three days were a blur of vigilant monitoring, with Bruno’s mother remaining by his side, drawing solace from the warmth and dedication of the medical professionals caring for her son.

A glimmer of hope emerged amidst the uncertainty. News reached them of the upcoming Neurosurgery and Urology Camp at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH). Since the specialists at the Children’s Hospital confirmed a neurological issue, Braxton was referred to JOOTRH for brain surgery under the expertise of Dr. Lee Ogutha, the region’s leading neurosurgeon. The timing of the camp felt like a divine intervention, especially considering their financial constraints.

An MRI scan confirmed their worst fears: a tumor-like growth in Bruno’s head. Surgery was deemed imperative. However, due to the ongoing pneumonia, a four-day treatment plan was established to ensure his body was strong enough for the operation. This delay, though agonizing, was a crucial step in his recovery journey.

The illness had eroded Bruno’s once vibrant spirit. His body, weakened by a lack of appetite, had grown thin. The sight of his pain-filled cries at night was enough to break his mother’s heart. Yet, the prospect of specialized care at JOOTRH fueled her optimism. She clung fiercely to the belief that the surgery would be successful and restore her son’s health.

The Neurosurgery and Urology Camp, organized by the Kisumu Neuroscience Initiative in collaboration with JOOTRH, serves as a lifeline for families like Braxton’s who face the daunting prospect of specialized care without the financial means.

As Bruno is prepared for surgery, his mother holds him close one last time, whispering reassurances only she can offer. Her hope now rests in the skilled hands of the surgical team, her spirit buoyed by the possibility of seeing her son healthy once again.