Doctors explain how Rebecca Cheptegei fought for her life days after being set on fire
Rebecca Cheptegei, a prominent Ugandan athlete, faced a harrowing ordeal when she was set on fire in September 2024. The attack left her with severe burns over much of her body, prompting an immediate and intensive medical response.
Doctors at the hospital where Cheptegei was treated described her condition as critical but stabilized after her arrival. The first step in her treatment involved addressing her severe burns. Medical teams used advanced burn care techniques, including debridement to remove damaged tissue, and applied specialized dressings to prevent infection and promote healing.
Cheptegei underwent several surgeries to address the damage. These included skin grafts, where healthy skin was taken from other parts of her body or from a donor and transplanted to the burned areas. This procedure is crucial in helping the skin heal and restore its function.
In addition to the physical treatments, Cheptegei received extensive pain management to cope with the severe discomfort associated with her injuries. Psychological support was also a key part of her recovery, helping her manage the trauma and emotional distress from the attack.
Her medical team worked tirelessly to monitor her progress and prevent complications such as infections or sepsis, which are common risks in severe burn cases. Rehabilitation was another critical aspect of her care, focusing on physical therapy to regain mobility and strength.
Despite the severity of her injuries, Cheptegei’s resilience and the prompt, comprehensive medical intervention significantly contributed to her recovery. Her ongoing treatment and rehabilitation will be crucial for her long-term recovery and return to normal life.