A doctor has warned Kenyans against attempting physically strenuous activities without adequate preparations saying it could lead to serious health complications.
This warning comes after James Irungu, who was on a mission to raise awareness about cancer by hugging a tree for 80 hours collapsed at the 79th hour and is currently receiving treatment at Murang’a County Referral Hospital (MCRH).
He began the campaign at 9:27 pm on Sunday, January 4, 2026, and continued until around 3 am on Thursday, January 8, 2026 when he collapsed and was rushed to hospital
One of the medics attending to Irungu at MCRH, Dr. James Kahura a nephrologist, recommended that people seeking to engage in such endeavors, where they are likely to have prolonged periods of exhaustion, lack of water and food to ensure they are thoroughly evaluated by trained health professionals.
He noted that because last year Truphena Muthoni from Nyeri county did a similar thing and succeeded, there might be many more people attempting such challenges.
“Before you engage in such an endeavor go on a thorough medical examination, be evaluated to establish whether your body is strong enough to undergo such stressful conditions,” he advised.
The medic also recommended that those attempting such challenges bring on board medical professionals during that period so that in case of an emergency they can intervene promptly.
He further recommended that people staying for long durations without food or water should take isotonic fluids to maintain their body fluids at an equilibrium.
Dr. Kahura further underscored the need to be well prepared before such strenuous exercise. noting safety should be a priority.
The doctor disclosed that at the time of admission Irungu had severe dehydration and had started developing multi-organ failure with organs such as kidneys, heart and brain affected.
“He is now stable and will be under observation for at least 24 hours,” Dr. Kahura confirmed.
“He had acute kidney injury, muscle fatigue, raised muscle enzymes and was admitted, resuscitated and given fluids to bring his electrolytes back to normal,” he added.
Murang’a governor Irungu Kangata on his part, said the focus is now on Irungu’s wellbeing as he is still under observation at the hospital.
“Our focus remains on his personal health since the doctors have raised some concerns about his condition,” Kang’ata said. adding he fully supported the cause Irungu was championing.
“There are many gaps in healthcare especially when it comes to treatment and management of cancer,” he noted.
The governor stated that the county government will take care of his medical bills as part of their support.
By Purity Mugo
