Restored Dignity

Story by Sherine Atieno and Photos by Ondari Ogega In February 2012, Leah Atieno’s life changed in ways she never imagined. The businesswoman from Airport estate in Kisumu developed obstetric fistula following childbirth, three months after delivering her lastborn child, who weighed 4.2 kilograms. What followed was more than a medical condition; it was a loss of dignity, confidence, and social belonging. The urine and stool were leaking uncontrollably through the fistula, leaving her constantly wet and uncomfortable. The condition made even the simplest daily interactions unbearable. Ashamed and fearful of the smell, she withdrew from customers and eventually stopped her mandazi business altogether. Her small source of income collapsed as people kept their distance. Overwhelmed by embarrassment and distress, she began locking herself indoors, retreating from the world outside. The psychological and social toll was immense. At the time, she was informed that surgical repair in a public hospital would cost approximately KSh 60,000. Financially constrained and unable to raise the amount, she had no option but to endure the condition. What followed were 11 long years of silent suffering. It was not until 2023, when she learned of a fistula repair camp in Homa Bay, that hope resurfaced. She seized the opportunity for screening and underwent successful surgical repair at no cost. That decision marked the beginning of a new chapter. Today, Leah walks through the wards of Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH) not as a patient, but as a survivor and a champion who is contantly reaching out to orther women who have fistual challenges . Accompanied by teams from M-PESA Foundation and Flying Doctors of Africa, she returned during a courtesy call to the CEO to encourage newly operated women. Her presence is living proof that obstetric fistula is treatable and that restoration is possible. During the visit, Dr. Mitei, Obstetrician and Fistula Surgeon at JOOTRH, reflected on the magnitude of the challenge. He noted that Kenya records an estimated 2,000 to 3,000 new fistula cases annually, yet specialist surgeons remain few. At the ongoing fistula camp, 42 patients had already been admitted, with expectations of reaching at least 60. He emphasized that while surgical repair is critical, prevention through improved access to skilled maternal care is equally urgent. Speakers also highlighted the devastating stigma associated with fistula. Many women are isolated, some divorced, others confined indoors due to the inability to control urine or stool. The condition strips away dignity and social identity. But initiatives like the current camp are restoring more than health—they are restoring dignity, confidence and hope. JOOTRH CEO Dr. Joshua Okise stated that JOOTRH Mashinani initiative will strengthen grassroots awareness, early identification, and referral systems to ensure women access timely care and no longer suffer in silence. fy

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