For the last 11 years, the family of Margaret Njoki from Longonot has suffered one difficulty after another. The problems begun in 2011 when the mother of five underwent a leg operation at Kenyatta Hospital in Nairobi.
The operation did not fully help her recover and she had to undergo another operation seven years later. Unfortunately, her condition worsened and she was left paralysed. She could no longer undertake her daily activities.
Margaret has been undergoing regular checkups since then. She, however, has never recovered. Recently, she had another operation but wounds have eaten up her upper leg into her upper abdomen including the uterus. She’s constantly in pain. Her ailment her physically, emotionally and financially drained her family. Her daughter, Mary Njoki, has had to leave everything behind to look after her mother.
To help her manage the health condition, which was diagnosed as an acute case of cancer, Margaret has been attending radiotherapy sessions at Kenyatta National Hospital which has put further financial strains to her family. The family has been forced to turn to friends, neighbours and well-wishers to help in taking care of Margaret.
This was the situation until the issue was brought to the attention of Nakuru County Governor Susan Kihika. The Longonot community which has been looking after Margaret approached her asking for help at the weekend. Today, the Governor has taken over the treatment and care of Margaret who has since been admitted at the Nakuru Oncology centre for specialised treatment.