A 15-year-old Kenyan girl, Shannon, has found herself stuck abroad in India due to a mounting hospital bill that her family is struggling to pay. Shannon was diagnosed with Polymyositis, a rare and debilitating autoimmune disease, in July 2024. The condition, which causes inflammation in the muscles, severely affected her ability to move. Her legs began to give way, leaving her unable to climb stairs, stand up from a seated position, lift objects, or walk without assistance.
Shannon’s health quickly deteriorated after the initial symptoms, and despite multiple visits to neurologists, neurosurgeons, pediatricians, and other specialists, no one could offer a clear diagnosis or effective treatment. In desperation, her mother, Saetwa Saitoti, decided to take her daughter to India for specialized treatment. Armed with only half of the required medical funds, Saetwa embarked on the journey to India, not knowing how they would manage the full cost.
The total cost of Shannon’s treatment was estimated at KSh 4.5 million. However, Saetwa managed to raise only KSh 2 million before leaving for India. Despite the financial uncertainty, Saetwa could not bear the thought of her daughter losing the ability to walk, and thus, the decision to go was made out of sheer hope and faith. To their relief, after receiving medical care in India for two months, Shannon’s condition has significantly improved, and she is now able to walk again, a development that her mother describes as a miracle.
Shannon is expected to be discharged from the hospital next week, but the family still faces a KSh 2.5 million balance on their medical bill. This financial burden has been particularly difficult for Saetwa, who lost her job in November 2024 while caring for her daughter. Currently, Saetwa works as a freelance social media marketer to sustain herself and her daughter, but it has been a difficult struggle.
Saetwa is now making a heartfelt appeal to well-wishers, organizations, and potential employers to help her raise the remaining funds needed to pay the hospital bill and bring Shannon back home. She has provided a Paybill number (7653464, Account 827262) and a direct M-Pesa account (0720560328) for those who wish to contribute. Saetwa emphasizes that even the smallest contribution can make a significant difference in their journey, as they have come this far with the help of both strangers and friends.
Polymyositis, the condition that Shannon suffers from, is an autoimmune disorder that causes severe muscle inflammation. It makes even the simplest daily tasks, such as walking or lifting objects, incredibly challenging. While Shannon’s case is extreme, there are many others around the world who live with similar conditions, facing the daily struggle of managing such diseases with limited resources.
Saetwa’s story is not just about a mother fighting for her child’s health; it is also a testament to the power of community support. From the moment Shannon’s condition began to worsen, people from all walks of life, including strangers, have rallied behind the family to provide both financial and emotional support. As they near the end of this arduous journey, Saetwa remains hopeful that the kindness of others will help them complete their mission and return home to Kenya.
Through their faith, determination, and the support of generous individuals, Saetwa believes that they will soon overcome the remaining hurdles. She remains hopeful that their story will inspire others to lend a hand in times of need, showing that compassion and solidarity can make all the difference in the world.
