A team of surgeons at Parirenyatwa Hospital recently performed a major operation on Laston Kwinika, a man from Beitbridge who had been living with a tumour in his mouth for 17 years. This life-changing surgery has given Kwinika a new lease on life, but it also comes with its own set of challenges as he now has to relearn how to speak, eat, and choose his food carefully.

Kwinika’s journey to receiving the necessary medical attention was a long and difficult one. Despite seeking help from various hospitals, including those in South Africa, he was unable to find a solution to his problem. It was only after his story was published in The Herald that Zimpapers launched a campaign to raise funds for his treatment. Thanks to the generosity of well-wishers, Kwinika was able to undergo a four-hour operation led by a skilled surgical team.

In an interview at Parirenyatwa Hospital, Kwinika’s wife, Milliet Ndou, expressed her gratitude for the support they received. She recounted the harrowing experience of watching her husband’s tumour grow over the years and the challenges they faced in seeking medical help. Despite selling their livestock and exhausting their resources, they were unable to afford the treatment Kwinika needed until the community rallied behind them.

Dr. Tapiwa Nyakudya, a specialist trainee in oral and maxillofacial surgery who was part of the surgical team, explained that the tumour was non-cancerous but had caused significant damage to Kwinika’s jaw. The surgery aimed to remove the tumour and preserve as much of the jaw as possible. However, Kwinika will need further procedures, including bone grafting, to reconstruct his lower jaw and restore his ability to eat and speak normally.

Dr. Nyakudya highlighted the importance of early intervention in cases like Kwinika’s, as delaying treatment can lead to irreversible damage. He emphasized the need for greater awareness and access to healthcare services for individuals facing similar challenges.