Spinal injury victim in 600km walk to raise Sh4m for treatment in India

Laikipia Governor Joshua Irungu flags off James Muiga, a spinal injury victim, who is on a walk from Meru to Nairobi to raise Sh4m for his treatment in India. [PHOTO: JOB WERU/STANDARD]

A spinal injury patient has embarked on a 600 kilometre walk to raise Sh4 million for his treatment in India.

James Muiga, a former teacher at St Angelic Girls Secondary School was involved in a road accident at Subuiga black spot on the Nanyuki-Meru road.

The 41-year-old sustained a spinal injury and has been using a wheel chair for the last one year.

Mr Muiga, who was flagged off by Laikipia Governor Joshua Irungu at his offices in Nanyuki town, will walk through Meru, Tharaka Nithi, Embu, Kirinyaga, Murang’a and Kiambu to Nairobi to raise the money.

The journey will take one month, and he will be accompanied by some family members.

Muiga said it has been a rough journey having to use a wheelchair to move around.

Given that most institutions have not factored in access to buildings by persons living with disability, he says he faces serious challenges while moving around.

Having started on this torturous journey, he hopes that well wishers will assist him raise the money.

“I would like to remind President Uhuru Kenyatta and his Deputy William Ruto that the journey has begun. They had promised me that they would support me to raise the money. This is the time,” said Muiga.

Governor Irungu contributed Sh200,000 and promised the teacher that on completion of his walk, he will have raised more funds from colleagues in the cabinet and county staff.

Irungu also appealed to governors of the respective counties where he will pass to support his cause.

While on his mission, he will also be raising awareness on spinal injury.

The father of two girls appealed to well wishers to support his noble mission. For those who wish to donate they can reach him on 0795 110893.