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Ashley Phiri, [email protected]
While the human body is a remarkable entity, capable of withstanding immense physical and emotional pain, there are times when even the strongest of individuals are brought to their knees by the weight of their afflictions.

For Mr Leonard Wurayayi, a 67-year-old Bulawayo resident, a painful lump on his neck had been a constant companion for the past 20 years, dictating every aspect of his life.

The lump, which started as a small swelling, grew into a prominent mass, not only affecting his appearance but also making simple tasks like swallowing and turning his head a daily struggle.

Dr Shin Yong Kyu

But, in a remarkable turn of events, a team of South Korean surgeons brought an end to Mr Wurayayi’s two-decade-long ordeal during a free medical camp in the city, giving him a new lease on life.

The physical burden of the lump was only part of the story. For Mr Wurayayi, it was a constant source of discomfort, stigma, and emotional distress.

Each day was a battle against fatigue and persistent headaches, which had become an integral part of his life. The lump had taken a toll on his self-esteem, making him feel ashamed and embarrassed about his appearance.

“This is a new beginning for me, I feel much lighter. The lump on my neck had been constantly growing. I couldn’t afford surgery, and the pain was becoming unbearable, but these doctors changed my life,” said Mr Wurayayi, fighting back tears of joy.

No longer burdened by pain and self-consciousness, he looks forward to returning to his normal life with a renewed sense of confidence and gratitude.

“Now, I can finally look at my grandchildren without feeling ashamed, and for that, I am grateful,” said Mr Wurayayi.

Mr Leonard Wurayayi

He was one of dozens of patients who benefitted from an ongoing five-day surgical outreach programme conducted at United Bulawayo Hospitals (UBH) by a delegation of specialist surgeons from South Korea.

The initiative, a partnership between the Seventh Day Adventist (SDA), South Korean medical volunteers and local health professionals, focused on providing life-changing surgeries to patients who could not afford expensive procedures

The programme, which was launched on Monday, offers free plastic surgery to patients suffering from various ailments, including cleft lip, and facial reconstruction as well as lumps and bumps.

Both young and old people are benefitting from the programme.

The programme has already provided hope and healing to several patients, including 51-year-old Ms Save Moyo, who has long lived with a large lump on her arm.

A Chronicle news crew caught up with the woman as she waited patiently for her turn in the hospital waiting area.

In an interview, Ms Moyo reflected on the challenges her condition caused in her life.

“Finding clothes that fit is a struggle, and it has affected my confidence. I am so thankful for this opportunity and looking forward to life after surgery, “she said.

Ms Moyo said the surgery would mark the beginning of a new chapter in her life.

Bulawayo Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister Judith Ncube visited UBH yesterday to witness the impact of the initiative first-hand. She lauded the collaboration between UBH and the SDA.

Bulawayo Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister Judith Ncube

“This skills transfer programme is a demonstration of the hospital and the church’s commitment to complement Government efforts in providing quality healthcare. It also reaffirms that Zimbabwe is a friend to all nations and an enemy to none,” she said.

“Through such skills transfer programmes, no one is left behind. I would like to commend the team spirit here at UBH.

This is the fifth time we are witnessing a programme like this, and such dedication and teamwork are truly commendable.”

SDA’s Bulawayo East church elder Thabani Moyo said the programme aligns with the church’s mandate to promote health and well-being.

“Our health expos and initiatives like this are crucial for promoting collaboration with different countries and promoting a healthy nation.

“The initiators of this programme, Dr Felix Nhoro and Mrs Nomathemba Nhoro are also products of a skills transfer programme in Michigan, United States of America,” he said.

One of the Korean surgeons, Dr Shin Yong Kyu said they are happy to partner and share knowledge with local doctors while helping people in need.

“This is my fifth time in Africa, and I’m happy to be in Zimbabwe sharing knowledge and skills with local doctors while helping patients in need of the services we are providing here for the next three days,” he said.

Dr Kyu said they had planned to do 40 surgeries. However, due to the overwhelming response, they are likely to increase the number.

UBH chief medical officer, Dr William Busumani said: “We are fortunate that this is a skills transfer programme, meaning our doctors are also gaining valuable experience.

“The surgeries are free, which is a great advantage for the entire community.”