Shujaa ace Patrick Odongo in need of 1.5 million to cater for fathers’ heart surgery

Kenya 7s fast-rising star Patrick Odongo is appealing for support to fund his father’s medical treatment. 

Odongo’s father Joanes Okongo is scheduled to undergo a corrective heart surgery but the family cannot afford to pay for the expenses.

As a result, the Kenya Sevens fraternity has started a fundraiser to support the family of the talented player.

According to Kenya Sevens, a sum of Ksh 1,500,000 is needed to make it possible for Okongo to undergo the procedure.

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“Join us as we unite in solidarity to support Patrick Odongo’s father, Joanes Okongo Orondo who is set to undergo corrective heart surgery at the Kenyatta University Teaching and Referral Hospital.

He urgently needs Ksh 1.5 Million to cover the expenses, and we appeal to the rugby community and all compassionate Kenyans to contribute to this vital cause,” read part of the statement from Shujaa.

Kenyans of goodwill have been urged to donate whatever they can spare via an Mpesa Paybill that is available on the team’s social media pages.

“To donate, please use the following Mpesa Paybill details: Paybill - 400200, Account: 428991 (George Owino Orondo),” the statement continued.

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Besides the money, Kenya Sevens have also requested people to donate blood at the hospital which is domiciled along the Thika Superhighway for the patient. 18 pints of blood (group O+) is needed for Okongo.

The communique from the national team ended by beseeching Kenyans to join hands and support one of their own.

“Every contribution counts towards saving a life. Let’s stand together in this time of need,” the post read. 

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Despite struggling with challenges, Odongo, who lost his beloved mother in 2023, has been a reliable player for Shujaa in the recent past.

He helped Kenya book a ticket to the 2024 Paris Olympic Games in September last year, scoring two tries in the final against rivals South Africa in a match that took place at a time the player had lost his mom.

The pacey player was also influential in Kenya’s recent triumph in the opening leg of the 2024 World Sevens Challenger Series staged in Dubai, scoring an impressive 11 tries as Kenya lifted the main cup.

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