A 29-year-old paralyzed South Sudanese man, identified as Dut Tol Machum, also known as Tolmang, is appealing for funds to cover his medication and food.
“I was admitted to Juba Teaching Hospital in early April, where I have been confined due to a lack of money. I would be elsewhere if I could get better care,” he said.
Machum, from Aweil North County in Northern Bahr el-Ghazal State, secured his hospital admission with help from well-wishers after struggling with illness for years.
He said he fell sick on Sept. 6, 2022, and has since sought treatment across Northern Bahr el-Ghazal and Western Bahr el-Ghazal states, initially receiving care from Dr. Francis Adwok at Wau Medical Complex.
“My sickness started on Sept. 6, 2022, and I have visited all major health facilities in Western and Northern Bahr el-Ghazal. I went to Wau Medical Complex, where Dr. Adwok prescribed medication, but there was no improvement. I now use crutches because the nerves in my back and legs are inactive,” he said.
Born in Nyala, Sudan’s South Darfur State, in 1996, Machum acknowledged the efforts of colleagues who helped refer him from Northern Bahr el-Ghazal to Central Equatoria State.
“I asked friends in Northern Bahr el-Ghazal to raise money for my transfer to Juba, and they did. That’s how I got here, hoping for better treatment at one of the best hospitals,” he said.
Regarding his progress at Juba Teaching Hospital, Machum said his legs and back remain weak, leaving him dependent on others.
“Since arriving in Juba, my condition hasn’t improved—my legs still can’t move. That’s why I keep appealing to well-wishers for support so doctors at other hospitals can diagnose my illness,” he said.
He added that poor accommodation, hygiene, and lack of basic necessities have worsened his condition.
“My current living situation is terrible. You might think I look healthy, but I’m suffering,” Machum said.
From 2020 onward, Machum worked as a volunteer radio commentator and regular caller for Akol Yam FM and Radio Miraya FM. Though unpaid, he had hoped to secure full-time employment.
He said he received some financial support but that it was insufficient for proper treatment.
“I pray for my legs and back to heal—and for donors to help me,” he added.
Reflecting on how his illness derailed his future, Machum said he has missed many professional opportunities.