Trust Khosa
Former Orchestra Mberikwazvo assistant manager Jatiel Machanja says he had been living with diabetes for 13 years before his condition deteriorated this year, resulting in the amputation of the leg in February.
The 53-year-old, who left Alick Macheso’s outfit on March 1, 2015, says he remains on good terms with his former paymaster.
He, however, conceded that he was struggling to make ends meet after his departure from the country’s biggest sungura outfit.
His woes have been compounded by health challenges, which continue to affect his daily life. “My health condition is now in the public domain, and many people know where I stand,” Machanja told Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub.
“I have been suffering from and managing this condition since 2013, when I developed a small wound on my left leg.
“It kept nagging me, and I had to undergo some medical tests, which revealed that I had diabetes. I managed it for years, but the condition worsened in February this year, leaving me grounded.”
Unlike some people who struggle to come to terms with misfortune, Machanja has devised his own ways of coping with his health challenges.
“I had to accept the condition I found myself in because I can no longer change it. I have also accepted that there are certain tasks I will never be able to perform because of my condition.
“My job as a bouncer or security personnel requires mobility and standing for long hours, but now I will need to explore other avenues.
“However, I am not spared from the economic challenges faced by other Zimbabweans.”
Having come to terms with his new reality, Machanja says he has learnt to live with his condition and urged fellow Zimbabweans to embrace regular medical check-ups.
“Regular medical check-ups are important for everyone, but we tend to act only when the situation gets worse.
“In my case, I am living testimony to the challenges of managing diabetes, and I will certainly do my best to manage the condition despite the difficult circumstances I find myself in.
“The main reason why some people are reluctant to go for regular check-ups is that they fear the stress that might come with discovering that their condition has worsened, especially if they are unable to manage it.”
A proud owner of a residential stand, but still renting an apartment in Chitungwiza, Machanja added:
“The main challenge I face right now is medication, as I struggle to raise at least US$50 to US$60 per month.
“Sometimes things get harder than you can imagine, but I have learnt to accept my condition and the fact that I now have to rely on the kindness of others.
“When it comes to rent, that is another challenge, but there are some Good Samaritans assisting me.
“If I were still able-bodied, I think I could develop my residential stand at a faster pace, but now it is difficult because of my condition.”
Machenja, who has lived in Chitungwiza for most of his life, said the dormitory town had given him more than he could have expected.
“I have always lived here, and I call Chitungwiza my home. I have learnt everything in this town, from schooling to music management, sound engineering and security.
“I have also learnt to embrace life as it comes and be open about when I need help, especially when misfortune strikes, as is the case right now.
“I am ready to pick myself up, but life has its ups and downs, which I have learnt to live with.
“I still miss socialising and visiting friends. If I want to leave the house, it has to be for something serious.”
As he reflects on his 13-year battle with diabetes, Machanja says he never imagined that his condition would reach a point where he would become so physically limited.
