In October 2019, Vivian Mawusi Gakpo's life took a dramatic turn when the vehicle she was travelling in suffered brake failure, causing a crash that left her paralysed. The incident occurred just two minutes before she reached her destination in Ashale Botwe. Gakpo recounted the terrifying moments leading up to the crash, describing the panic inside the car as everyone prayed for mercy. She remembered the sound of prayers, "Have mercy, God, have mercy," as the vehicle careened out of control.
Gakpo was the only occupant of the vehicle who suffered a major injury in the crash. When she regained consciousness in hospital, she felt excruciating pain throughout her body and tried to move her leg, only to discover she was unable to. Her attempts to lift her leg and raise it were futile, leaving her in a state of shock and despair. The pain was so overwhelming that she eventually passed out again, unsure of what the future held.
The surgeon who was to operate on Gakpo's spine informed her that the procedure would only help her spinal cord heal, but could not guarantee that she would walk again. Undeterred, Gakpo insisted that the surgery proceed, telling the doctor to do his part while she trusted her faith for the rest. The doctor's reaction was one of surprise, as he laughed at her response. The surgery aimed to repair the damage to her spinal cord, which had been severely injured in the crash.
The nerve damage caused by the crash had far-reaching consequences for Gakpo, affecting not just her legs but also her heart rate, breathing, and bodily functions. She experienced shortness of breath, and her bladder and bowel control were compromised, leaving her without the usual signals to her brain when she needed to urinate or pass stool. These changes have significantly impacted her daily life, requiring her to adapt to a new normal.
Beyond the physical injuries, Gakpo spoke of the psychological weight of adjusting to life after the crash. She recalled a particularly difficult night when the pain and challenges of her new reality became overwhelming. In a moment of desperation, she prayed to God to take her life in her sleep, as she found it too difficult to cope. This emotional toll highlights the often-overlooked mental health struggles that can persist for years after a traumatic incident.
Gakpo's account draws attention to the long-term consequences of road crashes, which often fade from news cycles once the immediate aftermath has passed. Her story sheds light on the experiences of survivors left with permanent disability, altered bodily functions, and mental health struggles. While her story has not been linked to any specific advocacy campaign or compensation claim, it serves as a poignant reminder of the lasting impact of such incidents.
The current status of Gakpo's medical and financial support remains unclear, as does any potential follow-up coverage or public appearances. As her story continues to unfold, it is essential to acknowledge the resilience and courage she has shown in the face of adversity. Gakpo's determination to share her experience may help raise awareness about the importance of road safety and the need for support systems for survivors of traumatic accidents.
Key points
- A Ghanaian woman, Vivian Mawusi Gakpo, recounts her life-altering experience after a brake-failure crash in October 2019 left her paralysed.
- The crash had far-reaching consequences for Gakpo, affecting not just her physical health but also her mental wellbeing.
- Gakpo's story highlights the often-overlooked long-term consequences of road crashes and the need for support systems for survivors of traumatic accidents.
