Rachael Otuoma, the widow of the late Kenyan footballer Ezekiel Otuoma, delivered a moving tribute during his burial, vowing to keep his memory alive.
Speaking at their family home in Ramula, Siaya County, on Saturday, January 11, Rachael pledged never to remove her wedding ring, describing it as a symbol of their enduring love.
“It was for better or for worse for the past four years, almost five. The journey of dealing with Motor Neurone Disease (MND) is not easy. It requires commitment,” she said.
“I dealt with it because he was someone I loved, and I still love him. This is his ring. I have worn it together with mine, and it will never leave my hand. He will always remain in my heart.”
Rachael Reveals Why She Chose to Stay with Late Footballer
While reflecting on their time together, Rachael revealed the strength of their bond and her decision to remain by his side during challenging times.
She praised Otuoma’s unwavering respect and generosity, to her and her family.
“To stay with him those four years, I chose not to leave him. It wasn’t because we didn’t have disagreements or because our love was perfect throughout—those in marriage understand that” she said.
“But I chose to stay because this man loved me with all his heart. He treated me with honor as a woman. Otuoma gave me everything I needed, and even anything my mother required, Otuoma ensured she had it.”
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How Ezekiel Otuoma Died
Otuoma died on Saturday, December 21, upon arrival at Shalom Community Hospital in Athi River, where he had been rushed after his condition worsened.
The footballer had been suffering from a motor neuron disease known as Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) that had made him wheelchair bound.
He was diagnosed with the condition, which is rare, that progressively damages parts of the nervous system in November 2020.
The former AFC Leopards striker had been undergoing treatment in various places including India. During his sickness, he had lost his ability to speak.
Otuoma appealed for finances to enable him to seek medical treatment. In 2021, betting firm Odibets came through with a donation of Ksh2.2 million to offset his medical bills.
Also Read: Football Star Ezekiel Otuoma Dies on Wife’s Birthday
Ezekiel Otuoma Football Profession
Otuoma, 31, played for Kenyan Premier League clubs, among them AFC Leopards, Ulinzi Stars, FC Talanta, and the defunct Western Stima.
It is at Muhoroni Youth and Western Stima where Otuoma made his name, attracting the attention of talent scouts with his dribbling skills and football artistry.
In 2015, he was called up to the Kenya Under-23 team. Two years later, he made Harambee Stars provisional squad for friendly matches against Togo and Mauritania.
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