OSHAKATI – Gabriel Teofelus (29), who was shocked by electricity while working on top of a building, says his four children will suffer because nobody will be able to support them following the incident.
He has been admitted to Oshakati Intermediate Hospital since last month.
The incident happened on 26 November at Oshikuku in the Omusati region.
Speaking to New Era from his hospital bed, Teofelus recounted the incident, explaining that he was carrying a metal object when it touched an electrical wire passing across the building where he was working.
“Whole body is burnt, except my head. Even my internal organs have been burned. I cannot walk, stand or sit up,” he said, with tears rolling down his face.
Teofelus had been employed at Okapyala Trading CC for five years.
He expressed his frustration, saying that doctors and nurses continuously give him only Panado tablets, which he believes are not helping.
He added that the health workers do not handle the bed properly in the corridor.
“Whenever I am pushed on the bed in the corridor, the health workers push me roughly, and sometimes the bed moves in different directions,” he lamented.
He continued, “They don’t care about my situation. They push me as if I’m a dead person,” he alleged.
However, the medical superintendent of Oshakati Hospital, Dr Ruben Kanime, denied Teofelus’ claims that he had only been given Panado tablets.
“Since the first day he arrived at the hospital, a group of doctors has been attending to him,” said Kanime.
He clarified that Teofelus was given a variety of medications to ease his pain.
Kanime also addressed the issue of patients being pushed on beds in the corridors, explaining that some hospital corridors have uneven floors, which makes it difficult for beds to move smoothly.
“We have been experiencing this challenge,” he added.
Speaking to our publication, Teofelus’ family said they wanted to transfer him to South Africa or a private hospital for a kidney transplant, but they do not have enough money.
Approached for comment, health executive director Ben Nangombe said the ministry has a special fund aimed at assisting patients who require treatment either in private hospitals or abroad.
“The patient can be assisted according to his or her condition,” he said.
He urged Teofelus’ family to approach the Oshakati medical superintendent’s office, or his office to discuss the matter further.
“The government is committed to providing medical services to the people,” he added.
Teofelus’ sister, Secilia Shiwedha, said her brother is the breadwinner of the family.
“He doesn’t like hunger. He is a real hustler,” she said.
Meanwhile, the owner of Okapyala Trading CC, Helungi Petrus, described Teofelus as a courteous and hardworking man.
“Since he got injured, the productivity of our company has slowed down,” he said.
Petrus recalled that Teofelus attracted clients because they appreciated his welding skills.
“He always provided excellent service, and did quality work,” he added.