Kennedy was born to Muhia Kimani and Margaret Waithera on the 26th March 2010 in Nairobi, Kenya. It was a normal delivery and he was discharged a healthy boy after 2 days. After a day at home, Kennedy fell sick with a high fever. By the 2nd day he was rushed to hospital. He fell into a Coma, stopped breathing and had to be resuscitated.

The doctors diagnosed him with pneumonia and he spent the next 5 days in a coma. When he came round, the doctors underwent a series of tests, CT scans and MRIs. They discovered that the lack of oxygen to his brain had developed brain atrophy and cerebral palsy. Kennedy underwent his treatment of physical therapy to help with his muscles spasms but the spasticity was so great he developed a clubfoot. After 9 months he was prescribed Epilim for mild seizures. His parents saw no evidence of seizures and after year with no improvement they took him off the drug, but it already had a terrible effect on Kennedys teeth, causing chronic decay, and pain. It has been an emotional struggle and a huge financial burden for his parents.

In spite of the fact that Kennedy was born a normal child, the insurance company has refused to cover Kennedy’s costs, stating they do not cover children born with disabilities. The fees charged by Doctors, physiotherapists and home help are more expensive because he is disabled. Kennedy is now 7 years old. He cannot talk, stand, sit or feed himself. Kennedy is looked after by a lady when his parents are working, however she is not a trained carer. It is very hard for Kennedy’s parents to leave him at home everyday, worrying if he is getting the proper care that he needs. There is a big gap in Kenya for trained carers who can professionally and lovingly look after people with disabilities.

After a Recent assessment from a specialist doctor from India, Kennedy was a good candidate to receive Stem Cell Therapy, foot Surgery and Urinary system surgery, which could substantially improve Kennedy’s motor skills, and hopefully enable him to eventually walk. This would be life changing for him and his family.

After fundraising in Kenya from friends and family Kennedy was flown to India and has recieved a successful surgery in both legs. However the remaining treatments and living expenses in India are costly and unmanageable for Kennedy’s parents. Any help to get this family through this ordeal would be hugely appreciated.

The family needs $25,000 / £18,690 to pay for the treatment, travelling and living expenses in India as well as the follow up therapy and treatment when he returns home. However any help at all would go a long way for this family.

COST BREAKDOWN

Extensive Rehabilitation post surgery (32 days) - $8,000/£5,980

Stem Cell therapy (7 days) - $11,000/£8,224

Medicine & medical assistive devices - $2,000/£1,495

Urinary System surgery - $2,000/£1,495

Rehabilitation therapy in Kenya - $2,000/£1,495