Victoria Conteh, the first woman to coach an elite men’s football club in Sierra Leone, has expressed her gratitude to national team boss John Keister for funding a life-saving operation to amputate her leg
Conteh, who made history as the coach of men’s top-flight side East End Tigers, began experiencing issues with her left foot in July 2022. After losing a considerable amount of weight due to the pain, Keister advised her to see a doctor.
After seeking treatment at the police hospital in Freetown, Conteh’s condition worsened over the next four months. Keister then took her to a doctor who diagnosed her with a severe foot infection caused by stepping on a poison.
In November of last year, surgeons amputated Conteh’s leg, with Keister breaking the news to her. Despite the initial shock and sadness, Conteh has accepted her fate and is grateful for Keister’s support.
Keister, who considers Conteh a trusted friend and lieutenant, funded her treatment due to their close bond. He was deeply affected by the news and cried when he had to inform her about the amputation.
Conteh, who has also coached Sierra Leone’s women at under-20 level, remains thankful for Keister’s emotional and financial assistance during this difficult time.
As a player, Conteh represented top-flight side Ascentonians in Sierra Leone’s women’s league and earned six caps for her country. She comes from a footballing family and developed her love for the game at an early age, despite her mother’s initial disapproval.
Conteh’s story is one of resilience and determination, and she continues to inspire others with her positive outlook on life.