Murang’a Pastor Collapses Minutes to 80-Hour Tree-Hugging Feat
Murang’a-based Pastor Jimmy Irungu collapsed on Thursday morning just 20 minutes short of his 80-hour target after hugging a tree for 79 hours and 40 minutes to raise cancer awareness.
The 30-year-old fainted from exhaustion with slightly over an hour remaining. Consequently, medics rushed him to Murang’a County Level Five Hospital. He had started the endurance challenge on Sunday, January 4, 2026.
According to health officials, Irungu remained in stable condition. Doctors attributed the collapse to extreme fatigue caused by prolonged physical strain.
Speaking by phone, Murang’a County CEC for Youth Affairs Noah Gachucha said doctors found the pastor’s vital organs functioning normally. As a result, they expected to discharge him within hours.
Although Irungu failed to reach the 80-hour mark, he still set a new endurance benchmark. Notably, he surpassed the previous 72-hour feat by environmental advocate Truphena Muthoni.
Meanwhile, the tree-hugging marathon in Murang’a town attracted large crowds. As hours turned into days, residents and visitors gathered to witness the attempt.
When Irungu crossed the 72-hour mark, cheers erupted at the site. Supporters broke into songs, dances, and prayers to celebrate the milestone.
In addition, the challenge drew national attention. Leaders, social media personalities, and residents from neighbouring counties travelled to Murang’a to show solidarity.
Muthoni herself visited the site. She applauded Irungu’s resilience and praised the message behind his campaign.
Irungu later said the challenge was inspired by cancer patients in his church and community. He described cancer as a “silent epidemic” affecting many families.
CEC Gachucha hailed the feat as historic. He said such an achievement had never been recorded in Murang’a County and beyond. Furthermore, he noted that the county was proud to celebrate Pastor Jimmy as a hero.
Afterwards, Governor Irungu Kang’ata said the county would engage the pastor after his recovery. The talks will focus on strengthening cancer awareness initiatives across Murang’a.
