Trans Nzoia County Unites to Fight Cancer: First Lady Leads the Charge for Early Detection and Support
Trans Nzoia County’s First Lady, Mrs. Lilian Natembeya, has urged residents to prioritize their health by regularly visiting health centers for cancer screenings. She emphasized that early detection and effective treatment can lead to the successful cure of many cancers. Speaking on Monday during the commemoration of World Cancer Survivor Day in Milimani, Mrs. Natembeya emphasized her commitment to advocating for cancer patients in the county, as the disease has not only caused immense suffering but has also left many families in financial ruin.
The theme of this year’s National Cancer Survivors Day, “A Celebration of Life,” resonated with Mrs. Natembeya’s message.
She urged cancer survivors to play an active role in raising awareness about the disease, emphasizing that a cancer diagnosis does not define one’s life, and early detection is key to saving lives.
To support cancer survivors, the county has implemented various initiatives, including survivorship clinics that provide personalized care plans tailored to meet individual needs. These plans encompass follow-up medical care, rehabilitation, and psychosocial support. Governor George Natembeya aims to empower survivors to reclaim their lives and thrive beyond cancer.
Damaris Bisau, the spouse of Kiminini MP, pledged her support in advocating for a cancer unit in the county, while Jones Simiyu, the spouse of Cherangany MP, encouraged cancer survivors to persevere with their treatment, emphasizing that life continues after cancer. Zeitun Mmula, the county Director of Medical Services, shared her personal experience with family members living with cancer. She reiterated the county’s commitment to improving healthcare services and ensuring the provision of adequate support for as many cancer patients as possible. She called upon Mrs. Lilian Natembeya to be an advocate for people living with cancer.
Mmula also urged the county administration to incorporate cancer treatment into the Natecare initiative through the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF). This would facilitate easier access to cancer treatment for hundreds of patients, removing financial burdens. The county government of Trans Nzoia remains dedicated to the well-being and empowerment of cancer patients, striving for excellence in survivorship care and fostering a supportive community. Together, they aim to overcome the challenges faced by cancer patients.
Esther Jarenga, a representative of palliative care, revealed that over 400 cancer patients have received assistance at the county referral hospital from 2022 to the present. She highlighted the urgent need for a dedicated cancer unit, as the current facility is overwhelmed by the high number of patients. Many have had to travel to Eldoret, and some have tragically succumbed to the disease due to the lack of a nearby medical facility.
Jarenga explained that the palliative care team has been regularly visiting the homes of cancer patients for counseling and treatment but requires additional support. A utility vehicle would greatly aid their efforts in reaching patients in rural areas.
Social workers in the county have tirelessly worked to address family-level issues, ensuring that cancer patients receive adequate care and adhere to prescribed medications. Jarenga called on the county government to increase the number of health workers and install cancer equipment in health centers to enable immediate treatment upon diagnosis. She also emphasized the importance of training more health workers to strengthen the fight against cancer.
The Department of Health has been actively disseminating information about cancer, resulting in an increase in the number of patients seeking treatment at the county referral hospital. Jarenga expressed gratitude to Mrs. Lilian Natembeya for joining forces with cancer survivors and the palliative care team to support cancer patients.
Betty Khaemba, the county’s reproductive health coordinator, reported a surge in cervical cancer patients from the Matisi and Mitume areas. She called on the county government to allocate more resources to cancer treatment and screening, ensuring that a larger portion of the population receives comprehensive care.
One of the cancer survivors, Zakayo Apwacha, expressed his disappointment with the lack of facilities to handle cancer cases in the county. He challenged the new administration to swiftly address the challenges faced by cancer patients.
Apwacha also raised concerns about the inefficiency of the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) in assisting cancer patients. Many patients, including himself, have been forced to rely on funds from family and friends as the NHIF does not fully cover their medical expenses. The financial burden on cancer patients is immense, with upfront payments draining their already limited resources.
He emphasized that the disease has profoundly impacted the lives of many people and urged the government to implement initiatives that would provide substantial assistance to cancer patients.
Apwacha appealed to the county government to establish a dedicated cancer facility within the county. Currently, patients are forced to travel to other counties for treatment, resulting in financial strain and hindering their ability to access timely care.
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