Story by Sherine Atieno, photos by Ogega Ondari.                                                             The year 2025 began with a special blessing for Esther Akoth, a mother of three and resident of Manyatta, Kisumu. As the world ushered in a new year, Ms. Akoth welcomed a bouncing baby girl at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH).
Her delivery, one of the five infants born on January 1st, marked the start of a year filled with hope and gratitude.
Ms. Akoth described the moment as a divine gift that starting the year with a baby in her arms is a blessing beyond words.
Her story comes just days after JOOTRH celebrated the arrival of 13 babies on Christmas Day, December 25th. The festive season was truly a time of joy at the hospital, as each newborn brought smiles and cheer to their families and the hospital staff.
Arriving at JOOTRH’s maternal and baby unit ready for the life-giving procedure, Ms. Akoth praised the nurses and midwives who guided her through the delivery process. The care she received was warm and incredible incredible. "Though the labor pain was excruciating, their support made it possible for me to safely deliver my baby through a cesarean section." She shared.
Like many mothers delivering on this significant day, Ms. Akoth admitted she had hoped for gifts to celebrate her newborn. However, her heart is brimming with gratitude for the healthy arrival of her baby girl. "She is the greatest gift I could ask for."
Ms. Akoth was discharged and is looking forward to introducing her new bundle of joy to her family. This year has started on a high note for her, and she's excited for what lies ahead.
The New Year marked a moment of joy and unity at JOOTRH, as five mothers safely delivered their babies, symbolizing new beginnings and the beauty of life.
For Ms. Akoth the start of 2025 will forever be etched in her heart; not just as the beginning of a new year, but as the start of a beautiful journey with her baby girl.
