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Author Binyavanga Wainaina appeals for help after suffering stroke

By HILARY KIMUYU November 27th, 2015 1 min read

A medical appeal has been set up by Kwani Trust to raise funds for Kenyan author Kenneth Binyavanga Wainaina.

The ‘One Day I Will Write About This Place‘ author suffered a stroke on October 13 at his home near Bomas of Kenya.

Binyavanga, who shocked the world in January 2014 when came out as gay, was admitted in the Intensive Care Unit at Karen Hospital and got discharged three weeks later on November 6.

However on November 13, he developed  physical difficulties arising from the stroke. Following consultations with a neurosurgeon, it was decided that he be admitted to Nairobi Hospital for further observation.

Doctors at the hospital found that the author has a chronic condition that affects the blood vessels in the brain making him susceptible to blockages and strokes.

Binyavanga needs approximately Sh7.5 million to travel to India for treatment.

Speaking to Nairobi News, Kwani Trust managing director Billy Kahora said that they have so far raised Sh 2.8 million from well wishers.

Mr Kahora added that Binyavanga is strong but is talking with difficulty.

He will be leaving for India before the end of the weekend to start treatment. His family has agreed to take him to Bangalore, India, where further tests will be conducted with the possibility of surgery.

“This will be followed by rehabilitation, recuperation and basic care. We are currently working on his hospital-to-hospital transfer to India,” said Mr Kahora

Kwani Trust will hold a benefit concert on Saturday December 7 at 8pm.

Pledges and donations can be sent to:

Bank Name: Commercial Bank Of Africa (CBA)
Account Name: Binyavanga Wainaina Medical Fund
• KES (Kenya Shillings) Account: 6564760155
• USD (US Dollar) Account: 6464760168
Bank Transfer Information (Applicable to both accounts)
SWIFT CODE: CBAFKENX
BANK CODE: 07
BRANCH CODE: 000
BRANCH: WESTLANDS BRANCH