-Jamesetta Kugmeh Demands, says her kidney and Urethra are not functioning after surgery
By Jerromie S. Walters
WomenVoices has learned that a report by Jamesetta Kugmeh, a Liberian woman about her harrowing experience at ELWA Hospital, which she claims resulted in severe medical complications, including kidney damage is under investigation by the Liberia Medical & Dental Council (LNDC)
On Saturday, Jamesetta Kugmeh shared a heartbreaking video detailing her harrowing experience at ELWA Hospital, which she claims resulted in severe medical complications, including kidney damage. The ordeal has left her in excruciating pain for weeks
What began as a routine prenatal checkup at ELWA Hospital on February 24, 2025, took a theatrical turn when medical practitioners advised Kugmeh to remain hospitalized, citing her impending delivery. According to her, her pregnancy was about 42 weeks five days at the time.
Trusting the professionals, she complied and stayed at the facility. However, days later, she was informed that a cesarean section (C-section) would be necessary for the delivery. Although her husband initially hesitated, Kugmeh, a registered nurse (RN) herself, urged him to consent, believing it was the safest option to avoid further complications.
During the procedure, Kugmeh also agreed to a total hysterectomy—a surgical removal of the uterus and cervix—after it was recommended by the hospital’s medical team. While the baby was delivered alive, Kugmeh’s health rapidly deteriorated post-surgery. Her condition became so critical that she was hastily transferred to John F. Kennedy Medical Hospital for further care.
In her emotional account, Kugmeh described enduring unbearable pain, continuous bleeding, and a severe decline in her health following the transfer. She expressed feelings of neglect and frustration, alleging that the medical team at ELWA Hospital failed to provide adequate post-operative care.
LNDC Inquiries
When contacted, Augustus Walker, the Director of Communications at the Ministry of Health informed this paper on Sunday, March 16, 2025, that the matter is being handled by the Liberia Medical and Dental Council (LNDC) because the ELWA Hospital is a private health facility.
The Liberia Medical & Dental Council is an independent agency overseeing Liberia’s Medicine, Dentistry, and Alternative Medicine. Its goal is to ensure high-quality healthcare by implementing regulations and guidelines.
Following their (LNDC) intervention, he said the Ministry of Health will be informed. “LNDC is responsible to look into that matter before any other intervention. If it was a government hospital directly, then the Ministry can act immediately but LNDC has that authority to handle that matter,” Walker narrated.
Questions Surrounding Dialysis Treatment
Adding to the complexity of her case, Kugmeh revealed that she is now undergoing dialysis, raising questions about the state of her kidneys. Medical experts explain that dialysis is typically required in two scenarios: acute kidney injury (AKI) or end-stage kidney disease (ESKD). While AKI can often be treated with intravenous medications and temporary dialysis, ESKD is a chronic condition requiring lifelong dialysis or a kidney transplant.
Kugmeh emphasized that she had no prior history of kidney problems, leaving many to wonder why she was placed on dialysis. Was it due to AKI, potentially linked to her surgery, or a more severe condition like ESKD? This uncertainty has fueled calls for a thorough investigation into the medical decisions made during her treatment at ELWA Hospital.
Calls for Accountability and Advanced Medical Care
The public has demanded that the doctors and surgical team involved in Kugmeh’s case be held accountable. Many are urging authorities to interrogate the medical professionals to determine whether negligence or errors contributed to her current condition.
In response to her deteriorating health, a GoFundMe campaign was launched to raise funds for Kugmeh to receive advanced medical treatment abroad. The campaign has garnered significant support, as one of the indicators, Martin Kollie disclosed that In 17 hours, they received US$3,552 plus L$49,600 for Jamesetta Kugmeh. Hw, he said, “Let’s hit at least $5K in 24hrs. The first financial report is up in 30 minutes. Please donate to Mobile Money: 0880835183 Akan Monpowon and Zelle: 301-250-3927.”
