Life journeys: My battle with HIV & Cancer - Sally Agallo

“I got married at a very young age and relocated to Mombasa with my husband,” Sally told Citizen Digital.

Unfortunately, what was supposed to be a happily-ever-after story turned into a series of misfortunes.

Her firstborn child tragically passed away just two days after birth, and shortly after, she experienced a pregnancy loss.

As her health began to deteriorate, Sally sought medical attention, only to receive the devastating news that she had tested positive for HIV. The diagnosis plunged her into a deep depression.

“I attempted suicide by jumping off a ferry, but instead of drowning, I found myself floating on the water,” she recounted.

The strain of her diagnosis eventually led to the breakdown of her marriage.

“My sister came to my aid at my lowest point, and I am grateful she stood by me,” she said.

Sally returned to Nairobi, determined to rebuild her life. However, just as she was regaining her footing, she received another devastating diagnosis: Stage II cervical cancer.

This led to a hysterectomy, a procedure that dashed her hopes of ever having children.

A year later, Sally was diagnosed with rectal cancer, necessitating a colostomy operation that involved the removal of her rectum and colon. As a result, she now relies on a colostomy bag for the rest of her life.

Despite these challenges, Sally channelled her experiences into founding an organization that fosters hope and provides support to individuals living with similar conditions.