Ex- Harambee Stars player Paul Ochieng’pleads for aid in battle against cancer

By FRANCIS ONTOMWA

KENYA: After years of colourful career as Harambee Stars defender, sadly, Paul Ochieng’ now neither plays nor enjoys the game, anymore. He is courageouly fighting cancer at his Bukembe village in Bungoma County.

The 36-year-old, who was one of Kenya’s most dependable defenders five years ago, has undergone several radiation treatments and chemotherapy at various hospitals but has not had a breakthrough.

He says even fending for his jobless wife and children has become a tall order.

“I entirely depend on well-wishers and friends for assistance,” he says.

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Kenya Power and Kenya Premier League have been assisting him in the past but doctors now say he needs specialised treatment outside the country something he cannot afford.

“I have been in and out of Kenyatta National Hospital and Moi Referral and Teaching Hospital and doctors say I should undergo another cycle of chemotherapy. The procedures are expensive and I cannot raise even a penny. Others advise me to seek treatment abroad,” says Ochieng’.

His wife Zaina says she has, on daily basis, to take care of his husband.

“I have to sit around the whole day near him because he cannot do anything for himself,” Zaina tells The Standard.

Ochieng’ made seven appearances for Harambee Stars between 2000 and 2005 under coaches Jacob Mulee and Twahir Muhidin. He played alongside Kenya’s biggest names including Dennis Oliech, Musa Otieno, Silvanus Otema and Hillary Echesa.