adminMarvelous Moyo Gwanda Correspondent
A 24-YEAR-OLD Gwanda man who has not been able to sit or walk following an accident in May, is seeking financial assistance to undergo a spinal cord operation.
Ishmael Msimanga who turned 24 on Tuesday this week, is lucky to be alive after he was involved in an accident on May 17 near Blanket Mine, but since then he has never been able to sit or stand.
The man’s mother has since quit her job to help him as he can only lie in bed.
Msimanga’s spinal cord was injured during the accident but he says doctors are hopeful that an operation could enable him to stand and walk again.
He was recently discharged from Parirenyatwa Hospital in Harare after being admitted for almost three months.
Msimanga yesterday told The Chronicle that he needed financial assistance to fund his spinal cord operation.
“I’ve a spine injury and the doctors said I need $2,100 for an operation. It’s not easy because I can’t work so that I raise the needed funds. My family and friends have been very supportive during this difficult time but I still need the financial assistance so that I can lead a normal life again,” said Msimanga.
“I’m always in bed because I can neither sit nor stand. It’s only in these past few days that I’ve been trying to sit but I’m in so much pain. The doctors said I should come back on September 7 for an operation but I’ve failed to raise enough money. I’m therefore appealing to the well-wishers to help me.”
After the accident, he said he underwent an operation for his fractured leg.
As he spends his time in bed, his feet have developed pressure sores.
“I do everything from this bed. I use the adult diapers and the urinary catheter to relieve myself. This life is not easy for me,” Msimanga said.
His mother, Irene Tshabangu, said she had stopped going to work as she had to look after Msimanga.
“I clean him up and bathe him daily on his bed. Our family members and the church have helped us raise some funds for treatment and other medical expenses.
“However, he still has to undergo an operation but we have challenges in raising the money. We’re appealing for assistance,” she said.
She said her son also needed assistance with transport to Harare in which he could lie down throughout the journey since he cannot sit.
Those willing to help can phone Tshabangu on 0713704742.
Online Reporter