The chance of a healthy life

We want every child to have a healthy childhood. But being born into poverty in Kenya means that many can’t afford to access basic healthcare which puts children's lives at risk. This was the case for 10-year-old Kimberly who began experiencing pain while swallowing food due to the inflammation of her tonsils. As her condition worsened, even breathing became difficult and she struggled to sleep and eat. 

Thankfully, Kimberly is a Stand by Me child and attends our school where we have employed a nurse, Eva, who immediately recognised her tonsilitis and referred her to the hospital where Kimberly underwent surgery. Nurse Eva treats 675 cases in the school clinic each year, keeping our children healthy and able to stay in school to pursue their dreams. Of these cases about 13 children experience serious illnesses and are referred to the hospital. 

Kimberly has made an incredible recovery. Today, she is able to have fun with her friends, learn at school and enjoy renewed health. 

“If they had not intervened, Kimberly’s treatment would have been delayed because we simply could not afford the huge hospital bills” - Kimberly's mother. 

Our school clinic provides regular checkups to monitor our children’s health and bring early intervention to serious illness, giving our children the best chance at a healthy life.