First Automated Red Blood Cell Exchange in Public Hospital Marks Breakthrough for Sickle Cell Warriors in Kisumu
Kisumu, Kenya — History was made today at Victoria Hospital, an annex of Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH), after the first-ever automated red blood cell exchange transfusion in a Kenyan public hospital was successfully conducted. The milestone marks a turning point in the fight against sickle cell disease (SCD) in the region.
A Gamechanger for Sickle Cell Management
The life-saving procedure, powered by a newly acquired apheresis machine, has been hailed as a gamechanger. It reduces painful crises, improves quality of life, and can extend life expectancy for warriors living with SCD. For some patients, the treatment can mean up to five years without a crisis — a dream many families have long prayed for.
The First Patient: A Story of Hope
The first warrior to undergo the procedure was Mitchel Omullo, a 32-year-old filmmaker, chef, and disability inclusion facilitator diagnosed with SCD at the age of three. Speaking after the procedure, Mitchel described the treatment as a “gamechanger” and encouraged fellow warriors to embrace the intervention.
Warriors Share Their Excitement
The announcement was made on a clinic day, with many warriors in attendance. Among them was William Otunga, a 30-year-old clinical officer at JOOTRH, who has endured five crises in the past year alone. While processing his Social Health Authority (SHA) requirements, William expressed optimism: “This machine symbolizes hope for a brighter future.”
Margaret Ochieng’ from Manyatta, mother to 16-year-old Teresa, a Form Two student diagnosed with SCD at age four, also shared her relief. Teresa has missed school due to frequent crises, while her mother has struggled with the high cost of medication. Margaret expressed hope and plans to enroll her daughter for the exchange procedure during her next clinic visit.
Collaboration Making It Possible
This groundbreaking achievement was made possible through a partnership between Nairobi West Hospital and JOOTRH. Officials urged warriors to ensure their Social Health Authority (SHA) contributions are fully paid for the year in order to access the treatment, underscoring the importance of insurance coverage in expanding access to advanced healthcare.
Why This Matters for Kisumu
- Healthcare milestone: First automated red blood cell exchange in a Kenyan public hospital.
- Regional impact: Offers renewed hope to thousands of SCD warriors across Kisumu and the lake region.
- Improved quality of life: Promises fewer crises, less hospital time, and more opportunities for education and work.
- Partnership model: Collaboration between Nairobi West Hospital and JOOTRH shows the potential of cross-institutional efforts in strengthening public health.
For Kisumu and the wider community, this achievement is more than just a medical milestone — it’s a symbol of resilience, progress, and hope for every sickle cell warrior and their families.