While pursuing his medical degree at the University of Nairobi, Dr. Gome was an avid basketball player, dedicating his Saturdays to the sport he loved. After graduating, his medical career led him to Loitokitok District Hospital, more than 225km from Nairobi. His passion for basketball remained, so he committed to traveling back to Nairobi every Saturday to continue with his basketball club.
During his weekly training sessions, he observed another club sharing the courts. Curiosity led him to discover that this was a Special Olympics club, coached by Joe Mutua, an official he recognized from his own club. Recognizing Dr. Gome’s medical expertise, Coach Mutua approached him with a request: to provide medical support to the Special Olympics athletes.
Embracing the opportunity, Dr. Gome began offering medical consultations to these athletes during his weekly club visits. This commitment deepened his connection to the athletes, leading him to invest in their well-being and stories. His dedication led him to be trained as a Clinical Director at the 2007 Special Olympics World Games in Shanghai. He later advanced to the role of Regional Clinical Advisor for Africa and earned a position on the Special Olympics Medical Advisory Committee. In 2023 he was appointed as a board member to Special Olympics Kenya and in April 2024 was appointed as the Special Olympics Kenya board chair.
Beyond his involvement with Special Olympics, Dr. Gome has made significant contributions to the medical field in Kenya. He serves as the Manager of Medical Services at the Kenya Ports Authority, overseeing in-house medical facilities. In November 2024, Dr. Gome was appointed as the Chancellor of St. John Ambulance Kenya, further cementing his leadership in the medical community.
Dr. Gome's journey from a passionate basketball player and committed healthcare provider to a pivotal figure in Special Olympics Kenya embodies the mission: fostering inclusion, breaking down barriers, and empowering athletes to live their healthiest lives.
