Anne Adongo is a 38-year-old mother of three (3) living in Turbo, Uasin-Gishu County. She developed fistula in 2022 while delivering her last child. She delivered her child on the road while on her way to hospital. After delivering her child, she proceeded to hospital where she was given a clean bill of health and she proceeded to return home. However, when she got home, she realized that she was unable to control her stool flow. Anne had suffered a recto-vaginal fistula.
Worried and confused by what was happening to her body, she confided in her mother who reassured her that she would be okay, and the situation would resolve itself. She was not satisfied with the feedback and kept trying to find a remedy. Because she is unemployed and still living with her parents there was only so much could do for herself. She however did not give up and kept sharing her problem with her family and seeking support.
During this period, she lived in isolation and only surrounded herself with family who were not always warm to her because at her age she was unemployed, and still living with her parents and unable to take care of her 3 children. She had no friends to confide in. She used pampers when she could afford them and used rugs on most days. She was constantly worried that her parents would send her away from home as she felt like a burden to them.
In January 2024, Anne was able to visit the hospital and was examined. She was diagnosed with fistula. She could however not afford the cost of treatment. She shared with her cousin about her plight and she informed her about a fistula medical camp in Webuye. She managed to travel for the medical clinic and went through a successful correction surgery. She had hope of living a normal life and making a living for herself.
In June 2024, Anne noticed that she was unable to control her stool flow. She reached out to her cousin once again and informed her of her situation. She was then informed of the medical camp at Thika Level 5 Hospital. Her cousin was gracious enough to cater for her transport costs from Turbo to Thika. She travelled overnight arriving in Nairobi on the morning 8th June 2024 and made her way to Thika. Upon arrival, she was screened and certified fit for surgery.
On 12th June 2024, Anne successfully went through corrective surgery and is recovering well. She is overwhelmed with joy and finally has hope of gaining independence. She is grateful to M-PESA Foundation, the Flying Doctors Society of Africa, and Royal Media Services for the help she has received.
