Midlands Correspondent
A Form 3 student from Mwenezi, Patience Sibanda, has shared her traumatic experience of losing her leg in a crocodile attach that happened while she was washing clothes in the Mwenezi River.
The incident occurred at Musosonyi Village 6 under Chief Chitanga in September.
Currently hospitalized at Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals in Harare, Patience recounted the incident and its aftermath, expressing her emotional turmoil and the challenges her family faces.
The Incident
Patience, a 17-year-old student from Chin’ombe Secondary School, described how she was preparing to return to school when the attack happened. She believes that the incident may have spiritual implications, stating,
“I could have been sitting for my end-of-year examinations with my colleagues, but my dreams have been shattered.
She mentioned having premonitions of being attacked, which adds to her distress.
“My teacher took the case to my parents, and I had to return to my village in Mwenezi from Chegutu. I sought spiritual help, and the situation changed. On the day I fought this crocodile, I was washing my clothes, preparing to return to Chegutu for school. I am under a spiritual attack, I want to believe.”
Medical and Financial Struggles
In her hospital bed, Patience appealed for public assistance to cover her medical expenses, as her family is struggling financially.
“I am battling for life here in hospital, and I need medical and spiritual help. I need medical assistance since some of the medicines are not found around.”
Her mother, Joyleen Kwava, expressed the emotional and financial toll the situation has taken on their family. With her husband unemployed, they have exhausted their savings and are now in debt to pay for Patience’s medical care.
“I am now emotionally spent, devoid of hope since my husband is unemployed. We have used every dollar raised from farming and we ended up borrowing money to be returned with interest in a way to pay the medical bills. Patience is our firstborn; the other two boys are in Grade 5 and ECD, respectively.
Joyleen highlighted the need for an artificial leg and specialized medications, some of which are not available locally.
“The wound is yet to heal following her amputation. Some of the medicines are from our neighbouring countries, and she needs an artificial leg. I hope to find favour from my fellow Zimbabweans and get assistance.”
Community Support
Patience’s story has resonated with many, and her family is hopeful for support from the community. They are seeking both financial assistance for medical bills and spiritual help to address the challenges they believe they are facing.
This tragic incident not only highlights the dangers present in rural areas but also underscores the importance of community support in times of crisis. As Patience continues her recovery, her resilience and determination to overcome this life-altering event shine through.
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