06/12/2025
Mumias Man Celebrates One Year of Recovery After Life-Saving Spinal Surgery at Tophill Hospital
A resident of Mumias in Kakamega County is celebrating a remarkable milestone—one full year of recovery—after undergoing a complex, life-saving spinal fusion surgery at Tophill Hospital in Eldoret.
71-year-old Eli Jonah Muhammad Manza, known to many as Eli Mwanza, underwent the delicate procedure on December 5, 2024, after months of debilitating pain that had stripped him of his independence and wellbeing.
For years, Mwanza had endured worsening lower back pain. By the time he was admitted to Tophill Hospital, the situation had become dire. He struggled to walk, found it difficult to pass urine, and could no longer carry out basic daily tasks. MRI scans conducted by neurosurgeon Dr. Florentius Koech revealed severe spinal stenosis, a critical condition that required immediate surgery to relieve pressure on his spinal nerves and stabilize his spine.
A Critical Operation That Restored His Life
On December 5, 2024, Dr. Koech and his surgical team performed a complex decompression and fusion procedure, involving titanium pedicle screws and rods .Exactly one year later, Mwanza is walking without assistance, climbing stairs with ease, and living independently again. During his anniversary review at Tophill Hospital, he described the transformation as “a testimony of God’s grace, skilled doctors, and strict adherence to medical instructions.”
“When I came to this hospital, I could not walk. I was in severe pain,” he recalled. “Today, I can climb to the third floor to see my doctor, take care of myself, and live a functional life. I thank God, Dr. Koech, and the entire Tophill Hospital team for restoring my health.”
A Long, Disciplined Road to Recovery
Mwanza’s recovery required immense discipline. After surgery, he was instructed to lie strictly on his side so that the wire staples could remain properly aligned. Even water could not touch the incision area, so nurses carried out careful bed bathing to maintain sterility. Upon discharge, he rented a house in Eldoret for one month to remain close to the hospital. A dedicated nurse visited daily to care for the wound and ensure he avoided bending, stretching, lifting, or long sitting sessions that could interfere with healing.
He later experienced gluteal muscle pain, which Dr. Koech explained was normal, since the muscles were pulled aside during surgery to protect to reach the spine complex nerve . Mwanza said the pain eventually subsided by 95 percent as healing progressed.
Dr. Koech Praises His Determination
During the one-year review, Dr. Florentius Koech, who has monitored him from day one, praised Mwanza’s discipline and determination.
“When Mwanza first came to us, his quality of life had significantly deteriorated,” Dr. Koech said. “We knew the surgery was necessary, and despite his age, we went ahead to relieve the pressure on his nerves. It has been a rewarding experience to see him recover so well. There is a 100% success rate with this surgery, and I am pleased to report that Mwanza is now pain-free and able to walk without assistance.”
Living Safely After Surgery
Reflecting on his journey, Mwanza emphasized the importance of careful living after spinal surgery. He explained that patients must avoid sitting for prolonged periods to prevent vertebral compression, refrain from long-distance walking, and avoid driving for the first year.
He also warned against using motorbikes, especially on rough roads or bumps, as they can cause dangerous spinal jolts. Proper bathing should be done with an overhead shower to avoid bending, and all follow-up appointments are essential for monitoring the healing of titanium plates and screws.
He shared that remaining in Kenya for treatment was both effective and affordable. The operation, which would have cost three or four times more abroad, was successfully performed locally. He expressed deep gratitude to the Social Health Authority (SHA), which covered a quarter of his hospital bill, easing the financial burden.
A Journey of Faith and Gratitude
Deeply emotional, Mwanza thanked God for sustaining him through the toughest year of his life. “I told God, as You are touching others, do not pass me by—and He heard me,” he said. “Today, I am going home healthier, stronger, and grateful.”
He also acknowledged all the doctors and nurses in the treating team for their compassion and professionalism, describing the institution as a place that restored his dignity and offered him a second chance at life.
Mwanza is scheduled for another follow-up in May 2026 to assess the stability of the titanium implants. As he returns home to Mumias, he does so with renewed strength, restored mobility, and gratitude for the journey that has brought him back to good health.
“This is my story,” he said softly. “And I thank God for it.”
