In 2014, Embu Level Five Hospital began its journey of providing essential palliative care services, offering pain and symptom management, counseling, family support, bereavement care, and spiritual guidance. Though our services were limited, we were committed to easing the suffering of those in need. At that time, we had a small but dedicated team of three providers who worked tirelessly to serve about 124 patients per month. 🤝💖

Fast forward to 2024, and the story of palliative care at Embu has transformed significantly. With the invaluable support of KEHPCA and partners like Hospice Care Kenya, we’ve trained over 400 health professionals in pain and symptom management, ensuring that care reaches deeper into our community. 🏥✨ Advocacy and awareness have become cornerstones of our efforts, allowing us to engage the County Health administration and committees to prioritize palliative care. 📣

Our clinic has expanded, not just in space but also in scope. We’ve introduced pediatric palliative care services 👶💙, and through mentoring students and training community health providers, we’re fostering the next generation of caregivers. The team has grown from 3 to 10 passionate providers, and the number of patients benefiting from our services has more than doubled, now reaching 326 patients each month. 📈🌈

We’ve also responded to the diverse needs of our patients—offering counseling for those undergoing chemotherapy, legal support ⚖️, and even providing breast prostheses for cancer survivors. Every step of this journey has been driven by one purpose: to offer compassionate, comprehensive care that makes a difference. ❤️🌍

Looking back on these ten years, we’re proud of how far we’ve come. But more importantly, we’re inspired by the stories of those we serve and the hope we continue to offer. Palliative care is no longer just a service—it’s a mission that touches lives in profound ways, and it’s a responsibility we embrace with open hearts. 💕🙌

z-library
z library