As a way of raising awareness about the endurance cancer patients and their caregivers go through, a man from Kahuro village in Murang’a County is attempting to set a record by hugging a tree for 80 consecutive hours in Murang’a town.
The exercise began on Sunday at 9:27 p.m. and is scheduled to end on Thursday at 5:27 a.m. if he completes the full 80 hours.
The 30-year-old James Irungu says he is using the exercise to call on the government to declare cancer a national disaster, considering what the patients and their caregivers endure during the long periods of the disease.
Oblivious of the curious onlookers in the heart of Murang’a town, Irungu has remained embracing the tree for hours on end, saying the main objective of the endurance challenge is to also sensitise the public on the challenges faced by cancer patients across the country.
By the time of going to press at 10.00am Tuesday, Irungu was still firmly hugging the tree.
Irungu says the act symbolises solidarity with cancer patients and their families, many of whom he noted endure immense suffering, especially while seeking treatment and medication, over and above the pain caused by the disease itself.
“This is to remember cancer patients and their families who go through a lot of pain physically.”
He added that cancer has become a major burden on households, as many families continue to struggle silently due to the high cost of care.
The awareness campaign comes just days after Truphena Muthoni from Nyeri completed a 72-hour tree-hugging challenge, which focused on environmental conservation, opposing deforestation, and highlighting the link between environmental protection and mental health.
Irungu said his initiative also seeks to spark national conversations on health financing, early diagnosis, and support systems for cancer patients.
By Florence Kinyua
