Kelvin is a 53-year-old farmer who lives in a very remote area, but he is proud of his livestock collection which currently includes 11 goats, 12 ducks, 35 chickens, and 56 doves. He has a small solar panel at home because there is no electricity anywhere near his area. He collects water from a borehole a short distance from his home, but he reports lack of quality water as the greatest health challenge in his community. Health workers have been visiting his community regularly to address issues of water sanitation, yet it remains a challenge. Kelvin began suffering from a cyst on his hand five years ago. It became so painful that he could not work on his farm. He did not seek medical care because the small hospitals in his area do not perform surgeries. He first heard about AHA’s surgical program at Kabudula when he came to the Kab for a tooth problem (Kab also has the only dental program in the area, which is also supported by AHA). He rode a motorcycle for an hour to reach the hospital on the day of surgery. He is looking forward to being able to work properly on his farm after recovery.
“This surgical program is so helpful because it’s for free!”
Author’s note: Kelvin received surgical care in June 2022 and is recovering well. To donate in support of Fanizo and patients like him, please click here. Zikomo.