Elderly with kidney failure fears for life amid Covid-19

Gary Venton, 69, a resident of Friendship Haven, war veteran and elderly member of society who suffers from kidney failure, said although he fears for his life due to the coronavirus (Covid-19) outbreak, there is still hope.

Venton, also a Memorable Order of Tin Hats (M.O.T.H.) member who became actively involved in Caprivi Bomgat, and served as Adjutant from 1998 until 2000, said living with weak kidneys puts him at risk.

“I now have to visit a hospital in very difficult circumstances and I am constantly worried that I may come into contact with people who have been exposed to the virus. It is quite a problem because I have no choice. I need to make sure that I get my treatment, and my visits cannot be interrupted,” Venton said.

Since living with kidney failure in the last two years, Venton said it’s been a challenge.

“My life is at risk more than ever,” he said.

He added that it is ironic that where he is supposed to feel safest is now a place that poses a danger to his life.

However, Venton said that during lockdown he hopes getting to a hospital would be much easier, compared to the dreadful experiences he has had in the last two weeks.

He said having to hear that someone who is in poor health and has a weaker immune systems is more at risk, has caused him to take precautionary measures.

“I always maintain good hygiene at all times because I can still be in control of personal hygiene,” Venton said.

He added that he has hope because there are family members who are always there for him and make sure that he is loved and cared for, until his final day comes.