In 2014, something extraordinary began at JM Kariuki Referral Hospital in Nyandarua County. Lucy Kinuthia, a passionate theatre nurse, saw an urgent need—patients with serious illnesses were suffering, and families felt lost. Lucy knew there had to be more that could be done to ease their pain, so she took action. 🌱
Starting palliative care wasn’t easy. “It felt like pushing a boulder uphill,” Lucy recalls. But her heart was set on bringing relief to those who needed it most. She spoke to her supervisor and even wrote to the medical superintendent, all while visiting patients during her free time. Slowly, her dream took shape. 🙏
With the help of their pharmacist, they ordered morphine, and Lucy began home visits. Together with a small team, they brought hope and comfort to people, right where they lived. It wasn’t long before they reached out to the Kenya Hospice and Palliative Care Association (KEHPCA), and with their support, the small initiative grew into a fully furnished palliative care unit! ✨
In 2018, the dream expanded further. Lucy’s team launched a cancer support group, and Nyandarua County’s first lady even came to celebrate with them! 🎉 Today, this support group is thriving under the Kenya Network of Cancer Organizations (KENCO), offering vital help to cancer patients.
But Lucy didn’t stop there. She helped train 45 Community Health Promoters(CHAs) to identify patients with palliative care needs, ensuring they were referred to the hospital. These CHAs are the unsung heroes of the community, making sure no one is left behind. 🙌
Their hard work has paid off. JM Kariuki Referral Hospital now has a dedicated cancer and palliative care unit, with more patients receiving care each day. Lucy’s efforts were even recognized with an award for initiating palliative care in Nyandarua County! 🏅
“We’ve managed to raise awareness about palliative care on local radio stations, and we’ve even been featured on national television, thanks to KEHPCA,” Lucy says proudly.
From a single room to a fully functional unit, the journey of palliative care at JM Kariuki Referral Hospital is one of perseverance, passion, and community spirit. 💪 Lucy’s vision has brought hope to countless patients and families—and the light of palliative care continues to shine brighter each day.
The JM Kariuki Refferal Hospital PC Centre
