Tears of Joy as Big Charlie Gets Medical Attention
It was a moment of profound gratitude and relief for Charles Nyoni, affectionately known as “Big Charlie,” as he received a donation of groceries and essential medication from the Health Officers Forum, a collective of urban council health department heads across Zimbabwe.
The donation comes after a documentary and a story in Indonsakusa, “The Giant of Hwange: Big Charlie’s Towering Struggle,” produced by the Newziana YouTube channel, exposed the immense challenges faced by the 2.1-metre-tall, 288kg man.
Big Charlie, arguably the biggest man in Africa, has been struggling with diabetes and high blood pressure leading to deteriorating health owing to lack of access to proper medication and resources.
Because he is no longer employed and is taken care of by his nieces and neighbours Big Charlie has not been to hospital due to lack of finances as well as his huge stature which makes it impossible for him to use public transport.
“I am speechless,” is all Big Charlie could say of the gesture as he chocked back tears of joy. He thanked the Indonsakusa reporter Rutendo Mapfumo for highlighting his plight with Zimbabwe.
“I was becoming a burden to my community because I had to beg for help. This gesture has truly shown me that as Zimbabweans, we are united, and I am forever grateful,” he said tears rolling down his cheeks.
James Sibanda, Big Charlie’s neighbour, also welcomed the support, acknowledging the profound impact it will have.
“The food and medication will go a long way, but there is still a need for Big Charlie to get a suitable mattress for his bed.”
Dr. Prosper Chonzi, the Chairman of the Health Officers Forum, explained their motivation for providing assistance saying after seeing the documentary they felt the need to make a positive change for Big Charlie.
“We saw his story on the news and organised ourselves to visit Hwange and assess Big Charlie’s situation. We have seen his struggles, and as health officials, we are determined to help him with what we can,” he said.
The forum donated a comprehensive food groceries and a package of medications, including Nifedipine, Atenolol, Glibenclamide, and Metformin, to manage Big Charlie’s blood pressure and diabetes. Additionally, they provided essential supplies such as gauze swabs, crepe bandages, and Brufen to support his medical needs for the next nine months.
The Health Officers Forum has also pledged to explore sustainable solutions to ensure Big Charlie’s long-term well-being, including projects such as broiler farming that could help him sustain his lifestyle.
This outpouring of support from the Zimbabwean health community has provided a glimmer of hope for Big Charlie, who has been facing immense challenges due to his rare medical condition. As the nation rallies behind him, it is clear that the “Giant of Hwange” has found a renewed sense of purpose and optimism in the face of adversity.
Big Charlie was diagnosed with gigantism and acromegaly, a hormonal disorder that causes excessive growth. To date he is the largest man in Africa ,he is only 41 cm shorter than the worlds tallest man Sultan Kosen from Turkey who is at 2 .51 metres
*New Ziana*
