Shantel Kemboi’s medical journey: Family heads to India for surgery

Shantel’s plight was first highlighted by Citizen TV in February, after her family struggled to raise funds for her expensive treatment, revealing the gaps in the new Universal Health Coverage system under the Social Health Authority (SHA).

For over a month, Mary Lagat and one of her twin children have made the children’s ward at Kenyatta National Hospital their temporary home. They have been receiving care while waiting for clearance to begin the crucial medical journey to India.

Mary shared the struggle her daughter has faced. “Alikuwa na shida, hanyonyi vizuri, hana nguvu na hakuwi.” 

Shantel’s condition has left her unable to meet developmental milestones like other children her age. Her congenital heart disease causes her blood to mix improperly, which affects her growth and strength.

Her father, Gideon Kemboi, explained, “Shida ni ya moyo. Damu ile iko oxygenated na ile haiko inachanganyika.”

The journey to secure medical treatment for Shantel has been an arduous one. The family has moved from hospital to hospital, nearly losing everything in the process. They have sold nearly all of their possessions to try and afford her treatment. “Imekuwa vigumu sana. Mtoto angekuwa ameenda kwa sababu ya changamoto ya pesa. Ile pesa ilikuwa inahitajika India ni mingi sana.” 

Shantel's case gained public attention when it was revealed that the only viable treatment for her condition was in India, at a cost of Ksh 2 million. Although the family are registered and paid-up members of the SHA, the authority’s benefit limit is capped at Ksh 500,000, leaving them with a substantial shortfall.

Nonetheless, Shantel’s father remains hopeful. “Tuna imani kwamba mtoto atapona. Tuliongea na watu wa India, wakasema tuende tu. Mtoto afike, hayo mengine tunajua baadaye. Niko na imani vile nimesikia wengine wameenda na wamefaulu.” 

Faced with this financial challenge, the family turned to fundraising efforts, appealing to friends, family, and local leaders to raise the remaining amount. Shantel’s story, as first aired by Citizen TV, sparked an outpouring of support from the community.

Mogotio MP Kiborek expressed his gratitude, saying, "I would like to thank Citizen TV in a special way. When our girl is treated, they will have played a role. I also appreciate the people of Mogotio for fundraising and supporting each other.”

Despite the challenges and uncertainty that lie ahead, the family remains hopeful that when they return, they will have a healthy baby girl ready to grow and join her twin brother on their life's journey.