A 16-year-old boy from Nkabika Compound in Mazabuka District, Southern Province, is finally set to undergo life-changing surgery after living with a bullet lodged in his chest for the past five years. His parents, who have endured years of distress and uncertainty over his condition, are overjoyed and relieved after receiving assistance from a team of medical doctors at Maina Soko Hospital in Lusaka.
The boy’s ordeal dates back to 2020 when he was shot during a period of unrest in the country. Since then, he has lived with the bullet inside his body, facing various health complications and limitations that have affected his daily life. His parents, who have long struggled to find medical assistance, expressed their gratitude after the doctors at Maina Soko Hospital stepped in to help following a news report aired by Diamond News last week.
According to the boy’s parents, the medical team at Maina Soko Military Hospital acted swiftly after learning about his situation. They reached out to the family and immediately arranged for him to be transported to Lusaka for a thorough medical evaluation. After conducting several tests and assessments, the doctors confirmed that surgery would be necessary to remove the bullet and prevent any further health complications.
The surgical procedure is scheduled to take place this week, and the family remains hopeful that it will be a success. They have expressed their deep appreciation to the medical team and to Diamond News for highlighting their son’s case, which ultimately led to this life-changing intervention.
As the family prepares for the operation, well-wishers from the community and beyond have continued to offer their support, with many expressing their relief that the boy will finally receive the medical attention he has desperately needed for years.
The case has also reignited discussions about access to healthcare for victims of violence, with many calling for stronger mechanisms to ensure that individuals in similar situations receive timely medical assistance.
For now, the young boy and his family are looking forward to a brighter future, hoping that the long-awaited surgery will mark the beginning of his journey to full recovery.
By Helga Chibwe
