A section of Kenya's first National Ambulance Dispatch Centre, which will coordinate emergency medical responses across the country. [Courtesy]

Isaac Mutinda John was at work when he suddenly collapsed. His colleagues rushed him to Nthogoni Hospital. At the facility, doctors found he had high blood pressure and had suffered a minor stroke.

John was in critical condition. He had partial motion, breathing difficulties and a persistent cough. Doctors stabilised him before recommending an urgent referral to Makindu Hospital for specialised care. He required specialised treatment that was unavailable at the facility.

It was around 5 pm on May 17, 2025, when doctors recommended an urgent referral to Makindu Hospital for specialised care.

As doctors continued to review the patient, they requested Sharon Muthoni, his wife, to mobilise an ambulance for his referral, as the facility did not have one.