Fatal Sleep

Sleeping sickness, also known as Human African trypanosomiasis, is a major killer in Africa, affecting 60 million people and claiming thousands of lives each year. Transmitted by the tsetse fly, it affects both humans and cattle and has toxic effects on the treatment of the brain disease. Peter Kennedy's autobiographical account shares his trials and experiences researching the disease in Africa, evoking empathy with the affected patients and explaining its history and future.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 192 pages
\n Publication date: 15 November 2019
\n Publisher: Luath Press Ltd
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The tsetse fly's bite, a searing sting that penetrates the skin, triggers a descent into a violent fever and agonizing aches. Severe bouts of insomnia are followed by mental deterioration, disruption of the nervous system, coma, and ultimately death.

Sleeping sickness, also known as Human African trypanosomiasis, stands as one of Africa's most formidable killers. It imperils the lives of 60 million individuals, spans across 36 countries in sub-Saharan Africa, and claims the lives of countless thousands of people each year. Transmitted by the tsetse fly, trypanosomiasis affects both humans and cattle, causing significant disruptions in livestock production and farming, as well as posing severe toxic effects on patients undergoing treatment for the brain disease. Existing in the shadow of malaria and AIDS, this disease remains overlooked by pharmaceutical companies and largely neglected by the Western world.

Peter Kennedy has dedicated a significant portion of his professional career to researching sleeping sickness in Africa. His autobiographical account, interwoven with African geography, offers a poignant portrayal of his trials and experiences, evoking empathy for the affected patients. It also provides an in-depth explanation of the disease, encompassing its history, current status, and potential future solutions. Kennedy's compassionate story unfolds as he embarks on a journey of falling in love with Africa and building a vocation in the pursuit of a cure for this cruel disease.

Through his narrative, Kennedy vividly depicts the challenges and rewards of working as a young doctor in the African continent. He shares the experiences of encountering patients suffering from this devastating disease, as well as the personal toll it takes on both the patients and their families. He also delves into the historical context of sleeping sickness, tracing its origins and the efforts made to control and eradicate it.

Kennedy's account highlights the need for increased awareness, research, and funding for sleeping sickness. He advocates for greater collaboration between international organizations, governments, and pharmaceutical companies to address this neglected disease. He also sheds light on the personal stories of individuals who have overcome the challenges of sleeping sickness and emerged as survivors, inspiring hope and resilience in those affected.

In conclusion, Peter Kennedy's autobiographical account provides a powerful and compassionate perspective on sleeping sickness in Africa. Through his narrative, he sheds light on the overlooked and neglected nature of this disease, emphasizing the urgent need for global attention and action. Kennedy's story serves as a testament to the resilience and determination of those affected by sleeping sickness, as well as the dedication of medical professionals and researchers in the pursuit of a cure. By raising awareness and fostering collaboration, we can work towards a future where sleeping sickness no longer poses a threat to the lives and livelihoods of millions of people in Africa.

\n Weight: 378g\n
Dimension: 136 x 209 x 26 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781910745342\n
Edition number: 3 New edition\n