Mathew’s Story: A Journey Through Illness, Surgeries, and Survival in Germany
Mathew, a Ghanaian currently living in Germany, recently shared his health struggles and survival story on SVTV Africa’s Daily Hustle Worldwide Show with DJ Nyaami.
Mathew has endured serious health complications, undergoing 25 surgeries, including a liver transplant and chemotherapy for cancer. His illness initially started with a swollen stomach due to excessive fluid buildup, making it impossible to wear normal clothing.
Despite not having diabetes before, the complications of his condition eventually led to its development. After numerous medical procedures, he was matched with a liver donor, leading to a major transplant surgery. Unfortunately, his health struggles didn’t end there—he later developed cancer and had to undergo chemotherapy.
In his first interview with SVTV Africa, Mathew revealed that he struggled to travel from Ghana to Germany for medical treatment. After being in Germany for 10 months, his wife was still in Ghana with their six children. Eventually, the German immigration authorities allowed her to travel to take care of him.
Due to the language barrier, she had to enroll in a language course before starting an assistant nursing training program. She is currently completing her practical training before she can fully work.
Mathew noted that if he had come to Germany earlier without falling sick, he would have brought all his children with him for a better life. However, handling six children while managing his health and treatment costs has been a significant challenge.
After his liver transplant, Mathew wanted to learn cyber security and gain some skills to work. However, due to his health condition, the government classified him as unfit to work, preventing him from taking even a three-hour job.
His medical expenses are covered by the German government, including:
- Monthly medication costs of around €4,000, with one drug alone costing $1,000.
- A stipend (pocket money) to support his daily needs.
Despite this, he shared that many people in Ghana still call to ask how his job is going, unaware of his health struggles. He explained that while some people in Germany earn high salaries, others earn just enough to cover rent, taxes, and food, making financial success relative.
- Germany is ideal for young people in their 20s and skilled workers.
- If you come at age 50 or above, life will be difficult.
- Skilled workers such as masons, plumbers, painters, carpenters, and tilers have better chances of securing good-paying jobs.
- Those who attend school and translate their documents to German have a higher chance of avoiding deportation.
He also recounted how he was once denied the chance to attend school, but with the help of a lawyer, he was able to challenge the decision and eventually succeed in his education.
Finding accommodation in Germany has been a challenge for Mathew. He mentioned that some landlords refuse to rent to foreigners, preferring to rent to their fellow nationals.
Additionally, he shared the story of a Ghanaian couple facing deportation, despite the wife being enrolled in school. Fortunately, the school intervened, convincing immigration authorities that she was needed in the workforce, allowing her to stay.
Having spent seven years in various German hospitals (including Hamburg General hospital, Bremen, Düsseldorf, and Hanover), Mathew has learned a lot about health and nutrition. He urges Ghanaians to be mindful of their diet, stating:
- Reduce excessive consumption of fufu and heavy foods.
- Eat more fruits and vegetables within 24 hours for better digestion.
- Avoid too much Maggi seasoning, as it damages the liver and kidneys.
- Drink plenty of water, but not excessively, as it can also be harmful.
- Exercise regularly and go for health checkups to prevent sudden illnesses.
Mathew lamented that many seemingly healthy Ghanaians die mysteriously, often due to undetected health conditions.
Throughout his illness, Mathew’s wife has been his biggest support system. He expressed deep gratitude to her for standing by his side despite the difficulties.
Mathew’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of health, resilience, and careful planning when migrating. While Germany provides strong healthcare and financial support, life can be tough for immigrants, especially those without skills or education.
He urges people to prioritize their health, be mindful of their diet, and prepare adequately before traveling abroad.
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