By Monica Nashon
A transformative orthopedic medical camp launched by the Mairura Foundation in partnership with Nyanchwa Adventist Mission Hospital is giving hope and joy to Kisii residents.
The initiative is offering free specialized care to hundreds of patients from across the region, many of whom have long endured bone and joint conditions without treatment due to financial and infrastructural barriers.
At the forefront of the mission is Dr. Edwin Mairura, a renowned orthopedic surgeon and the visionary behind the foundation.
Dr. Mairura explained the scope of the camp, underscoring its purpose: bridging the healthcare gap and reducing inequalities through targeted orthopedic services.
“We’re working to make the world a better place,” he said.
“By expanding access to orthopedic care, we aim to address health disparities in underserved communities.”
Hosted at Nyanchwa Adventist Mission Hospital, the camp is offering both surgical and non-surgical interventions.
Treatments range from common ailments such as shoulder, knee, and hip pain, to severe trauma cases, often caused by motorcycle accidents, a growing safety concern in the region.
Elective joint replacements are also being performed, restoring mobility and quality of life to patients who had almost given up hope.
Specialised hand surgeons are on-site to treat complex upper limb deformities and conditions.
“Last year at Kisii Teaching and Referral Hospital (KTRH), we performed about 40 operations and served over 1,000 patients,” recalled Dr. Mairura.
“This year, we’ve already lined up 115 surgical cases and expect to complete between 40 and 50 operations.”
Devoid of discrimination
The initiative welcomes all age groups, from children with congenital deformities to elderly patients struggling with degenerative bone diseases.
The Foundation’s vision extends beyond treatment as it champions preventive healthcare, urging communities to adopt healthier lifestyles.
“Watch your diet, exercise regularly, maintain a healthy weight, and listen to your body,” Dr. Mairura advised.
“Early evaluation can be the difference between recovery and lifelong disability.”
The mission hospital’s CEO Dancan Mosioma expressed immense gratitude, calling the camp a pivotal moment for Kisii’s healthcare journey.
“We’re proud to host this camp, solely focused on orthopedic needs,” he said.
“The burden of these conditions is enormous, and the cost of care is often prohibitively high.”
Mosioma said that some orthopedic surgeries, such as spinal procedures or joint replacements, can cost upwards of KSh500,000 in private hospitals.
This partnership, he said, brings vital services to residents free of charge, a monumental feat made possible by international partners and local goodwill.
With over 1,500 consultations and surgical bookings already recorded, the CEO assured the public that the effort doesn’t end with the camp.
“Kisii lacks a dedicated orthopedic and spine centre. Our dream is to build a permanent facility right here. The Mairura Foundation has given us the momentum, the hope, and the energy to begin.”
Mosioma added that despite the big turn-out, all patients will be attended to.
“We are here for the community, not just during the camp, but every day forward.”