A Bulawayo woman is appealing for financial assistance from well wishers to undergo treatment for a rare condition that has left her bedridden.
Cleopatra Ncube, 26, from Cowdray Park, has developed gangrene on her fingers and the lower part of her feet.
In an interview with CITE, Ncube said her condition worsened after she received her Covid-19 vaccine on 27 July 2021.
She received the Sinovac vaccine.
“I got vaccinated on the 27th of July 2021, I instantly felt weak and the situation got worse and I had to be taken to Mpilo hospital,” she narrated.
She added that she was later admitted to St Luke’s Hospital in Lupane for treatment.
However, her situation did not improve and had to be taken back to Mpilo hospital and later to United Bulawayo Hospitals (UBH).
“The doctors said both my legs should be amputated but the elders asked me to come home maybe they will try traditional alternatives,” she said.
WARNING: The following video contains material that may be traumatising to some people.
Her sister, Phumuzile Ncube said Cleopatra used to complain of her feet before.
“She is someone who used to complain of her feet before, but after receiving the vaccine thus when she developed this condition,” said Phumuzile.
Contacted for a comment, Bulawayo Provincial Medical Director, Maphios Siamuchembu said Cleopatra’s problem was not caused by the Covid-19 vaccine.
“I have not come across anyone with severe side effects. I know for sure that this particular woman’s problem was not caused by the vaccine,” said Dr Siamuchembu.
He said there are many conditions that cause the condition.
“Most commonly, peripheral vascular disease, diabetes mellitus, and HIV infection cause this condition. I am not at liberty to name the particular condition causing this particular patient’s problem,” said Dr Siamuchembu.
Those willing to assist Cleopatra can contact her sister Phumuzile Ncube on 078 407 6779 or her mother on 078 4784 391.
