This archive report was first published on 19 July 2019.
On February 5, 2018, Isaac Mutembei's life took a dramatic turn when he was attacked by a mentally unstable man in Matunda market, Isiolo County.
The attacker, who was later confirmed to be mentally ill, used a hammer to drive four four-inch nails into Mr. Mutembei's skull.
Despite being left unconscious, the attacker continued to assault Mr. Mutembei, leaving him with severe injuries.
After being rushed to Kiirua Mission Hospital, Mr. Mutembei was referred to Meru County Referral Hospital and eventually Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH), where he underwent a six-hour surgery to remove the nails.
Mr. Mutembei spent a month in a coma and was paralyzed on the left side of his body. He was eventually discharged after two months, but the hospital bill had accumulated to Sh2.3 million.
Thanks to a fundraiser and the kindness of strangers, Mr. Mutembei was able to pay the bill and move on with his life.
On July 6, 2019, Mr. Mutembei got married to the love of his life, Stella Gacheri, in a colorful wedding at Nteani PCEA Church.
"I forgive my attacker and especially because he was taken to hospital and confirmed that he was not mentally upright," Mr. Mutembei said in an interview.
