A Trip to the Emergency Room - Kenyan Style

(Note:  Sutton's fine!  Didn't want to scare anyone!)

Earlier today, while Sutton and Seth were wrestling in the living room (as boys tend to do), Seth decided to stomp Sutton's head into the tile floor . . . no blood, no loss of conscious, no vomiting . . . but a few minutes later Sutton began complaining of blurred vision . . . uh-oh!  Not too much later, he began complaining of a headache, numbness in his face, and eventually his stomach began to hurt.  Pretty scary!

Aga Khan Hospital

So, we called Dr. Ruby who recommended that we go straight to Aga Khan Hospital, the most reputable hospital in Kisumu.  The most unusual thing about Kenyan hospitals is their "pay as you go" system.  Upon arrival, I had to pay 550 KSh ($5.50) for Sutton's consultation before he was seen by anyone.  After waiting for about 20 minutes in the ER, Tammy began to get antsy and began roughing up hospital personnel until a doctor came to look at Sutton.  Dr. Ruby recommended that we "make some noise" if Sutton was not treated quickly!  The doctor ordered a CT scan, which resulted in another trip to the cashier; this time for 10,000 KSh ($100).  We waited another 30 minutes for the CT scan, and then after getting scan, we waited for another 30 minutes.  Finally, we were handed the CT scans to carry over to the ER doctor.  Praise the Lord!  The CT scan showed no signs of bleeding on the brain!

Peculiarly enough, shortly after the diagnosis, Sutton began losing his previous symptoms; a medical mystery!  Sutton was pretty worried, and I think that his anxiety probably generated some of the "symptoms."  Anyway, we're just thankful that Sutton is okay!

Sutton's CT Scan

Be thankful for US hospitals!  In Kenyan hospitals, you can only be treated if you have the money.  Some Kenyans told us that when sick, many Kenyans just choose to die at home, because they would just die in the hospitals for lack of money for care.  If you are treated prior to payment, you are not allowed to leave the hospital until your bill has been paid.