Quintor Cheruto, an 18-year-old Kenyan girl, has been battling chronic kidney disease since 2014. Initially, doctors misdiagnosed her condition as a minor infection. By the time the correct diagnosis was made, her condition had worsened, requiring urgent dialysis for two years. Cheruto's health troubles began a decade ago, and she has undergone two kidney transplants, one in New Delhi and another in Eldoret, both of which failed.
Cheruto's first kidney transplant in 2016 was done in New Delhi, with her father as the donor. The surgery provided several years of relatively normal life, but by 2020, she began experiencing swelling in her feet and face. Tests confirmed that her body was rejecting the transplanted organ, and despite medication, the kidney failed, and she returned to dialysis. A second transplant followed in Eldoret in 2021, with her aunt as the donor.
The second transplant initially seemed successful, but Cheruto later developed pancreatitis, a severe inflammation of the pancreas that required two months of hospitalization. Unfortunately, doctors were unable to save the second transplanted kidney. Since then, Cheruto has been unable to return to school due to persistent leg swelling, fatigue, and unpredictable convulsions.
Cheruto's family is now planning a third transplant, but the cost is a significant barrier. In Kenya, kidney transplants cost approximately KSh 600,000 at public facilities like Kenyatta National Hospital, rising to over KSh 2 million at private hospitals. Additionally, lifelong immunosuppressive medication and postoperative care will add to the financial strain on her family.
The psychological burden of repeated setbacks, combined with the physical toll of dialysis, has deeply affected Cheruto. Her family is appealing for financial support to help cover the costs of the third transplant. Cheruto's story highlights the challenges faced by many Kenyans who require expensive medical treatments.
Cheruto's case is not an isolated incident. Many Kenyans struggle to access affordable healthcare, particularly for complex and costly procedures like kidney transplants. Her family's efforts to raise funds for a third transplant have garnered attention, and many are rallying behind her.
Cheruto's appeal for help has sparked a wave of support, with many calling for increased awareness and support for individuals and families affected by chronic illnesses. Her story serves as a reminder of the need for accessible and affordable healthcare in Kenya.
Key points
- The cost of a kidney transplant in Kenya ranges from KSh 600,000 to over KSh 2 million.
- Cheruto has undergone two failed kidney transplants and is now seeking help for a third procedure.
- Cheruto's health struggles have forced her to miss school due to persistent leg swelling, fatigue, and unpredictable convulsions.
