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What started as a small swelling on Cynthia Nekesa’s left arm has now become a major problem that has complicated her life.
When the swelling started, Nekesa’s parents, Francis Wanakawa and Roselyne Awino, thought it would go away. However, the arm has become so heavy that Nekesa has difficulties walking.
The Form Three student at Tingolo Secondary School in Butula constituency can only attend lessons three times a week.
To walk, she has to lean to the right side to balance the extra weight.
Nekesa, 18, from Masendebare village, does not like the way people stare at her because of her condition.
Doctors have diagnosed Nekesa’s condition as neurofibromatosis, according to a discharge form from Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital dated September 6, 2006.
Neurofibromatosis is a genetic condition that causes tumours to grow in the nervous system. Hospital records show that Nekesa was six when she was admitted to hospital on August 13, 2006 and underwent surgery.
Doctors recommended regular checkups to manage her condition. However, lack of money has complicated her treatment.
A frustrated Nekesa now wants the arm removed altogether.
“I just want this arm amputated so I can have some peace. It is too heavy and painful. I wonder if I will ever find a solution to this problem. I desire to live a normal life.”
The teenager said it had been difficult to concentrate on studies.
“I have difficulties walking because of the extra weight. That is why I only go to school thrice a week.”
Her father, Mr Wanakawa, moved to Nairobi early this year to look for a job to raise money for the treatment of his second born child.He works at a construction site in Rongai, Kajiado County.
“I sympathise with my daughter, especially when the hand starts paining. Yet I cannot do anything to ease her pain,” said Wanakawa.
Major problem
“At first, the swelling did not look like a major problem. However, we were shocked when it continued growing. We would take her to local health facilities where she would be given medicine to ease the pain but this did not take away the swelling.”
Tingolo Secondary Deputy Principal Andrew Biketi said Nekesa has often pleaded with teachers for help.
“The girl is ever absent but we understand. The hand is too heavy and the distance to school is long,” said Mr Biketi.
Nekesa and her sister, a student at the same school, depend on bursary.
