News / National
Bulawayo teacher to undergo life-saving kidney transplant in India
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After a prolonged battle with chronic kidney disease, 52-year-old Mrs. Isabel Mavengano, a dedicated teacher from Bulawayo, is set to leave the country today for a life-saving kidney transplant in India. The procedure, which is not readily available in Zimbabwe, will be performed at an estimated cost of US$40,000.
Mrs. Mavengano, who has been battling kidney issues for several years, previously shared her story with The Chronicle in July last year. Her heartfelt appeal to the public helped raise awareness about her condition and spurred widespread support, enabling her to raise over US$29,000 to cover the cost of the surgery, post-operative care, travel, and accommodation expenses.
Her journey has not been without challenges. Initially, a close friend had volunteered to donate a kidney, but due to unforeseen health complications, they had to withdraw. However, Mrs. Mavengano was fortunate to secure a kidney from a family member, who will accompany her on the trip.
Mrs. Nomathuli Makwenzi, a long-time friend who has supported Mrs. Mavengano throughout her fundraising efforts, confirmed the details of the trip. "Fortunately, we have a family member donating a kidney. The original donor had to pull out last minute due to health challenges. We have managed to raise just over US$29,000. So, we have decided to take this step and make the lifesaving trip," Mrs. Makwenzi said. "They will be departing from the Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport tomorrow."
Mrs. Mavengano, who has taught children with learning difficulties, has endured three years of peritoneal dialysis, a treatment that has kept her condition stable but is not a long-term solution. Currently on hemodialysis, her doctors have recommended a kidney transplant as the best option for her survival and long-term well-being.
The chronic kidney disease, compounded by diabetes, has severely impacted Mrs. Mavengano's daily life. She has been on insulin treatment since the age of 16 and has had to give up many household activities due to her declining health. "This condition took a toll on me as I couldn't take as much fluid as I wanted to. My kidney condition has made me prone to anaemia and I have lost the energy," she shared. "With kidney problems, it meant I had to avoid food high in phosphorus and iodine, like choumoellier and sweet potatoes. Peritoneal dialysis meant that I had to have my day properly planned."
The transplant offers a glimmer of hope for Mrs. Mavengano, providing the chance to improve her quality of life and prevent further health complications. The support she has received from friends, family, and the wider community has been instrumental in making this trip possible.
As she embarks on this crucial journey, Mrs. Mavengano remains hopeful that the transplant will give her a fresh lease on life, enabling her to return to her teaching profession and resume the daily activities she once enjoyed.
Mrs. Mavengano, who has been battling kidney issues for several years, previously shared her story with The Chronicle in July last year. Her heartfelt appeal to the public helped raise awareness about her condition and spurred widespread support, enabling her to raise over US$29,000 to cover the cost of the surgery, post-operative care, travel, and accommodation expenses.
Her journey has not been without challenges. Initially, a close friend had volunteered to donate a kidney, but due to unforeseen health complications, they had to withdraw. However, Mrs. Mavengano was fortunate to secure a kidney from a family member, who will accompany her on the trip.
Mrs. Nomathuli Makwenzi, a long-time friend who has supported Mrs. Mavengano throughout her fundraising efforts, confirmed the details of the trip. "Fortunately, we have a family member donating a kidney. The original donor had to pull out last minute due to health challenges. We have managed to raise just over US$29,000. So, we have decided to take this step and make the lifesaving trip," Mrs. Makwenzi said. "They will be departing from the Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport tomorrow."
Mrs. Mavengano, who has taught children with learning difficulties, has endured three years of peritoneal dialysis, a treatment that has kept her condition stable but is not a long-term solution. Currently on hemodialysis, her doctors have recommended a kidney transplant as the best option for her survival and long-term well-being.
The chronic kidney disease, compounded by diabetes, has severely impacted Mrs. Mavengano's daily life. She has been on insulin treatment since the age of 16 and has had to give up many household activities due to her declining health. "This condition took a toll on me as I couldn't take as much fluid as I wanted to. My kidney condition has made me prone to anaemia and I have lost the energy," she shared. "With kidney problems, it meant I had to avoid food high in phosphorus and iodine, like choumoellier and sweet potatoes. Peritoneal dialysis meant that I had to have my day properly planned."
The transplant offers a glimmer of hope for Mrs. Mavengano, providing the chance to improve her quality of life and prevent further health complications. The support she has received from friends, family, and the wider community has been instrumental in making this trip possible.
As she embarks on this crucial journey, Mrs. Mavengano remains hopeful that the transplant will give her a fresh lease on life, enabling her to return to her teaching profession and resume the daily activities she once enjoyed.
Source - The Chronicle
