In the serene village of Kibias, nestled in Lembus Perkerra Ward, a profound silence envelops the modest home of Sharon Lagat. A two-year-old baby, Jayden Kiprono, lies quietly, unable to stand or talk, his frail body a stark contrast to the vibrant life that once filled the room.
Sharon, a single mother at just 28, is holding her son, her eyes reflecting a mix of hope and despair.
Jayden was born handsome and full of promise, but just a month into his life, everything changed. Born prematurely at seven months, he spent crucial early days in an incubator as doctors battled to stabilise his immature organs.
But as time went on, it became evident that Jayden was suffering from a severe heart condition known as Atrioventricular Septal disease, which would require urgent surgery. This condition is common with children with Down syndrome.
“His father left when he found out about Jayden’s health problems,” Sharon recalls, her voice trembling. With no partner to share the burden, she found herself in a relentless cycle of hospital visits, desperately seeking treatment for her son. After a series of trials, doctors referred them to Matter Hospital in Nairobi, where a life-saving surgery was estimated to cost around 1 million Kenyan shillings—a sum far beyond her reach.
With tears welling in her eyes, Sharon recounts the agonising wait for help. “They sent us home with medication for six months, costing 5,000 shillings each month. I can barely afford food, let alone this treatment,” she says, her frustration palpable. Living with her grandparents, who also struggle to make ends meet, Sharon feels the weight of the world pressing down on her shoulders.
Juliet Kiptek, a neighbour, watches as Sharon navigates this painful journey. “Jayden could be such a joyful baby, but his health issues have taken that away from him. We’ve organised fundraisers, but so far, we haven’t found a solution,” she explains. The community has rallied around the family, but the financial demands remain insurmountable.
As the date for Jayden’s appointment at Matter Hospital approaches, hope flickers amidst the despair. Sharon is determined to explore every avenue for fundraising and support. “Only the kindness of others can save my baby,” she whispers, holding Jayden’s tiny hand in hers.
This story is not just one of illness; it’s a testament to the resilience of a mother’s love. Baby Jayden’s journey is a call to action for Kenyans to come together and help a family in need. The fight for Jayden’s life is not just Sharon’s battle; it’s a shared responsibility that echoes throughout the community. As they prepare for the next steps, one thing is clear: every contribution can make a difference, and hope is a powerful force.
By Maureen Chesang and Christopher Kiprop
