Ken Munene K., 14

Ken is a Grade 8 learner and the second-born in a family of three children. He became an orphan in 2024 after both of his parents passed away. Following their demise, his elder sibling, Kathomi, disappeared from home, leaving Ken and his younger brother, who is in Grade 7, to fend for themselves. The two boys now live together with minimal support. Despite these hardships, Ken is a bright and disciplined student who enjoys playing football and dreams of becoming a road engineer. Ken had been healthy until 2025, when he began experiencing a gradual decline in his health. By December 2025, his condition had significantly worsened. He was taken to several local health centers for treatment, with well-wishers contributing toward food and basic medication. However, due to financial constraints, he could not initially access higher-level medical care. As his condition failed to improve, his teachers intervened and took him to Kanyakine Hospital. When he did not respond to treatment there, he was referred to Consolata Hospital Nkubu for further evaluation. By this time, Ken’s condition had become alarming. He presented with mutism, refusal to feed, marked withdrawal, and progressive physical weakness. There was no history of head trauma. He appeared emotionally distressed, physically frail, and unable to communicate or care for himself. His health had deteriorated to a point where urgent specialized intervention was necessary. Following comprehensive assessment, Ken was diagnosed with major depressive mood disorder and was started on appropriate medication. A CT scan was recommended to rule out any intracranial lesion that could be contributing to his symptoms. He was immediately admitted for close monitoring, nutritional support, psychiatric management, and further investigations. Although his condition was critical at presentation, it is treatable with proper medical and psychosocial intervention. With structured care, adherence to treatment, and continued support, Ken has a hopeful chance of recovery and restoration of his mental and physical well-being.

The child Ken Munene Kiruja has been given high level medical care by a Physician /Nephrologist. Several investigations had been conducted and the boy is out of danger. He has fully recovered and given discharge to go home and take medicines. Attend psychiatric clinic and continue taking medication.

Ken’s condition is serious but manageable with timely and structured intervention. Early treatment is crucial to prevent further mental and physical decline. Ken’s prognosis is guarded but hopeful. Major Depressive Mood Disorder is treatable, especially when identified early and managed comprehensively. With consistent medication, counseling, psychosocial support, proper nutrition, and a stable environment, he has a strong chance of gradual recovery. Given his young age, previous good academic performance, and absence of underlying neurological injury (pending imaging results), his long-term outlook is positive if he adheres to treatment and receives continued emotional and social support.