SHINDA LOSHAMOK LOKUPES

For Shinda Lekupes, being a mother to five children meant carrying the responsibility of providing for her family and ensuring her children had what they needed to grow. But an unexpected health crisis changed the course of her life, leaving her unable to care for herself or her children and forcing the family to depend on the kindness and support of relatives.

Shinda, a single mother living in Isiolo, Kenya, began experiencing severe complications related to high blood pressure. As her condition worsened, her elder sister, Abiba, welcomed her into her home so she could receive the constant care and supervision she needed. When Shinda's body began swelling significantly, the family sought further medical attention, where doctors identified an underlying heart condition and prescribed medication to manage it.

Unfortunately, her condition took an even more difficult turn shortly after she began treatment. She developed painful blisters around her mouth, and within two weeks, she had lost her ability to move. What began as a medical emergency gradually became a life-changing reality. For the past 10 years, Shinda has been bedridden, unable to walk, attend to her personal needs or carry out even the simplest daily activities. She now relies entirely on her sister, Abiba, for her care.

Beyond the physical challenges, her illness also changed the lives of her five children. With their mother unable to work or provide for them, the responsibility of supporting the children fell heavily on the family. Abiba had to balance caring for her sister with ensuring that Shinda's children had food and other basic necessities. Meeting these needs became increasingly difficult, particularly without a reliable source of income.

It was during this difficult period that Mama Ibado Charity stepped in to support the household through its monthly food assistance programme. The regular food hampers have helped ensure that Shinda's five children have access to essential food supplies, easing the financial pressure on the family and providing some much-needed stability.

The assistance has also been important in meeting Shinda's nutritional needs. Because of her delicate condition, she struggles to eat solid or heavy meals and instead depends on lighter foods that are easier for her to consume. Milk and fortified porridge included in the monthly food package have become an important part of her daily nourishment. Her family keeps the milk close to her bedside, while porridge is prepared for her throughout the month, giving her access to food that she can comfortably manage.

For Shinda and her family, this consistent support has made a meaningful difference. It has eased the burden of providing for a household facing significant challenges and helped ensure that her children continue to receive nourishment despite their circumstances. It has also allowed Abiba to concentrate on caring for her sister, knowing that some of the family's most essential needs are being met.

Through its continued support, Mama Ibado Charity remains part of Shinda's family's journey, helping them navigate the difficulties of her illness with greater stability, dignity and hope.