Five months ago, Samuel Kulakul’s family left Nairobi with restored hope. After a long and difficult journey battling throat cancer, Samuel and the family in Enairebuk have received good news.
Story by Hillim Gitonga
Today, Samuel Kulakul and his father, Nicholas Kulakul, board a MAF plane to Nairobi for a follow-up medical appointment. They are filled with optimism and faith that their journey is nearing a joyful milestone.
We’ve been home for about five months. The doctor had given us a longer interval between visits because the disease had gone down.
“Samuel has been doing well. He looks healthy, has more energy, and even his hair has grown back nicely.”
Though Samuel hasn’t resumed school yet, Nicholas is hopeful.
Physically, there have been notable changes for the young teen.
“Before, even walking a short distance would exhaust him. Now we’ve been doing small exercises, and I can see a real difference. His body has changed, and he no longer complains as much when we walk,” Nicholas adds.
Walking this journey with his son means everything.
I feel very happy when we travel together. He’s confident and doesn’t fear going for treatment. I think today the doctor will give us good news, maybe even say we don’t need to come back again.
Their cancer specialist has confirmed that Samuel is still clear of cancer. The discomfort he feels now stems from the effects of the radiotherapy and chemotherapy. He is on the mend but healing slowly.
The road hasn’t been without challenges. Samuel’s selective appetite made mealtimes difficult.
Samuel has been sick for about two years and he’s currently improving.
“I am happy that MAF and Red Tribe have been supporting us through this journey. Because the road from Enairebuk is rough, unsealed and often washed out, it would take about eight hours by road but thanks to MAF’s flight, it’s going to take us just 30 minutes.”
MAF and Red Tribe have played a crucial role in Samuel’s care.
“Flying to Nairobi saves us so much time and money,” says Nicholas. “Without them, traveling by that rough road would be a big burden. I’m truly grateful for their help.”
MAF pilot Joost de Wit feels privileged to serve the family.
“This is my second time flying Samuel and his dad, and it’s truly a blessing to be part of their journey,” Joost says.
“Operating these planes allows us to make a real difference for people in need, getting them to the hospital quickly so they can access the treatment they deserve.”
"Our journey with Samuel started on 27 September 2024,” says Pamela Yasena, MAF’s Operations Coordinator who books the flights.
“After several flights, we were delighted to see him rejuvenated and to know that his doctor had declared him cancer-free.
“What a joy! Our mission of serving together to bring help, hope, and healing through aviation came alive! It is always a joy to receive positive feedback from medevacs. Indeed, our work is not in vain.”