Kenyan comedian Sylvia Savai, popularly known as Senjee, has provided an update on her ongoing battle with endometriosis, revealing a major setback in her plans for surgery. Despite being scheduled for a critical operation in Atlanta on June 17, 2024, Senjee’s visa application was denied, putting her health and hopes on hold.
An Urgent Appeal for Help
Taking to social media, Senjee made an emotional appeal for assistance in securing a visa. “Anyone able to help out with the visa or the embassy… My body can’t handle this pain any longer… @usembassynairobi,” she pleaded. Her plea came just a day after the passing of fellow endometriosis sufferer Jahmby Koikai, a loss that has deeply affected the endometriosis community.
Senjee recounted her difficult experience at the U.S. Embassy, which occurred the morning after Koikai’s death. “So I have a week left. Unfortunately, the day that we lost Jahmby Koikai, the next morning is the day I was scheduled for the interview. So I went there, put on a brave face, and answered the questions correctly,” she shared.
Visa Denial and Frustrations
During the visa interview, Senjee was asked why she needed to travel to the U.S. for treatment that is available in Kenya. She explained that her condition had worsened despite previous surgeries and treatments in Kenya, leading her doctors to refer her to specialists in Atlanta. “The lady went like, what’s your purpose of travelling and I said I’m scheduled for surgery. She asked why can’t you get treatment here, I said I’ve already had another surgery done here and treatment but my condition worsened over the years so the doctors referred me to Atlanta,” Senjee elaborated.
Endometriosis is a chronic condition where tissue similar to the lining inside the uterus, known as the endometrium, grows outside the uterus. This condition affects an estimated 10% of women of reproductive age worldwide, translating to around 176 million women. The disease often causes severe pain and can significantly impact the quality of life.
Senjee’s situation highlights the challenges faced by many women with endometriosis, particularly in accessing specialized care. As she awaits a resolution to her visa issue, her story continues to raise awareness about the condition and the need for support and effective treatment options.
In the meantime, Senjee remains hopeful and determined, urging her followers and well-wishers to assist in any way possible. Her courage and openness about her struggles have already inspired many, shining a light on the resilience required to battle such a relentless disease.
