Knitting in Cancer recovery: The Kiambu survivor making breast prosthesis for women

After undergoing a mastectomy, some cancer patients struggle to find apparel that is both fashionable and comfortable. Something that supports their recovery and makes them feel dignified.

In Thika, Kiambu County, Mary Mwangi has become a beacon of hope for breast cancer patients who have undergone mastectomy surgery.

Mary, the founder of Newdawn Warriors is a two-time cancer survivor, having been diagnosed with spinal cancer and breast cancer. She was first treated for spinal cancer, before a cancerous lump was discovered in her breast.

While facing the double threat, Mary, who had basic knitting skills, turned to crochet for healing.

During her treatment, the cancer warrior made an initiative out of her passion for knitting.

She handcrafts soft, affordable breast prosthetics to support women who have undergone mastectomy surgery.

Mary frequently donates these breast prosthetics to local hospitals when she pays a visit to patients who have undergone a mastectomy procedure.

She has also empowered others, training women like Patricia to make these custom prosthetics. Together, they're walking with hundreds of survivors, offering hope, dignity, and comfort through every stitch.

One of them is Hannah, who proudly wears the prosthetic made by Mary. For her, it's more than just a breast replacement, it is a symbol of resilience and a return to normalcy.

She sources materials to create these prosthetics locally, offering them at accessible prices either individually or in pairs. Every patient, with a small, medium or large cup size, can find a prosthesis at Mary’s store as she has various designs, colours and sizes.

Mary balances affordability with sustainability, has developed partnerships with healthcare providers and support organisations, and runs training programs for other survivors who want to learn the craft.

Through her work, Mary is addressing gaps in post-mastectomy care while building a peer-to-peer support network. She's created a community initiative that offers hope, dignity, and comfort to hundreds of survivors, transforming what began as her personal passion into a life-changing service for others.