In June 2017, Justus Okari received a life-altering phone call while at work. His wife, Janet Nyaboke, had collapsed and was unresponsive in Kisii, over 300 km away. At the hospital, doctors explained that there had been a disruption in the blood flow to her brain, and she was given medication. Initially, the family believed they were managing her condition, but six months later, Janet collapsed again, leading to a devastating diagnosis: she had suffered a stroke.
The stroke left her unable to move or do anything for herself, which deeply affected her sense of independence. Her facial muscles were weakened, making it difficult for her to speak, and her eyes couldn’t focus properly. This was followed by further complications, as a doctor’s strike forced them to move her from the public hospital to a private facility that was overwhelmed with patients. Janet’s condition required constant care, so Justus arranged for her to be transferred to Nairobi for treatment, where she was admitted for a week. Although she began showing signs of improvement, including moving her fingers, she was advised by physiotherapists not to use a wheelchair, as it would delay her recovery.
For Janet, the emotional toll of being unable to care for herself was overwhelming. She felt like a burden to her family, experiencing frustration and irritability when things didn’t go as planned. The struggle to regain her independence was slow but steady. She recalls the joy she felt when she took her first steps and when she was finally able to shower independently again.
Janet had first experienced unusual symptoms in 2016 headaches, blurred vision, and itchy palms. However, she was initially told by others that she had been bewitched and needed to seek help from traditional healers. Despite these misconceptions, she continued to follow medical advice and prayed for healing.
A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is disrupted, either due to a blockage in a blood vessel or a rupture in the vessel itself. An ischemic stroke is caused by a blockage, while a hemorrhagic stroke results from bleeding in the brain. Identifying a stroke early is crucial, as the brain needs a constant supply of oxygen and nutrients to function properly. Most strokes happen suddenly, with symptoms such as the inability to move, speak, or see properly.
Timely treatment is vital for stroke recovery. If a patient reaches the hospital within three to four hours of the onset of symptoms, clot-dissolving medications can be administered to treat ischemic strokes, or mechanical devices may be used to remove the clot. In cases of hemorrhagic strokes, surgery is often required to repair the rupture. Recovery from a stroke can be long and challenging, with some patients experiencing full recovery while others may face permanent disabilities.
Physiotherapy plays a significant role in stroke rehabilitation. Starting within 24 to 48 hours after the patient is stable, physiotherapists focus on regaining lost functions, such as mobility and muscle strength. The process is gradual and requires repetition to retrain the brain, which can be painful at first but becomes more manageable over time.
In addition to physiotherapy, proper nutrition is essential for stroke recovery. Reducing the intake of fats, sugars, and salt helps to regulate blood pressure, which is vital for preventing further strokes. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in healthy oils, are beneficial for brain health, as are antioxidants from fruits rich in vitamins C, E, and K. Whole grains and unprocessed foods are also recommended to help reduce cholesterol and prevent blockages in the arteries.
As Janet continues her recovery, she finds strength in the small victories, knowing that each step brings her closer to regaining the independence she once had. The journey of healing is long, but with the right care, perseverance, and support from family and medical professionals, recovery is possible.
