Meet the Patients of Nyadire United Methodist Hospital

Maxwell Chatindo

Posted: March 21, 2005

Small map of Africa showing location of Zimbabwe and UM Cross and Flame. Deep within the rural landscape of Zimbabwe, Nyadire United Methodist Hospital strives to deliver quality health care services to the community. The spirit and dedication of the staff is inspiring, however, the hospital's real impact is best conveyed through stories of the patients who are so well served.

Maxwell Chatindo, seven-years-old, arrived at Nyadire United Methodist Hospital in July 2004 with an enormous tumor growing just below his small chest. The boy also had a very high fever and a terrible cough. Accompanied by his grandmother, Maxwell was scared and weak and in terrible distress. The tumor caused a severe respiratory infection and Maxwell had developed tuberculosis.

When the tumor first appeared, Maxwell's grandmother had sought help from traditional healers, near their home in the village of Chisango. After several months and no result, Maxwell's tumor had spread into his chest and become a severe hindrance to his life. Walking, eating, and even lying down were painful for him. Finally, Maxwell's grandmother brought him to the hospital.

Dr. Anand Rao, a missionary doctor from India, surgically removed Maxwell's tumor as soon as he saw the boy. Only one month later, Maxwell was well on his way to recovery and feeling much better.

Today, Maxwell's grandmother is especially happy that her grandson's appetite has returned. There is only a tiny scar where the large tumor once grew and a smile has returned to Maxwell's face.

The staff in the hospital's pediatric ward has taken extra special care of Maxwell. The nurses monitor him very closely to make sure he finishes his medicines. They are worried that if he is not vigilant with his medication the tuberculosis will return.

Increasingly strong and therefore becoming more and more restless, Maxwell is anxious to play with his friends and return to school. Thanks to Nyadire United Methodist Hospital, Maxwell will go home very soon.

Photos: Doctors at Nyadire United Methodist Hospital removed an enormous tumor from young Maxwell Chatindo's chest. Photo by Amy Squires 2004.

Read another inspiring story about Nyadire United Methodist Hospital.