
By Treezer Michelle Atieno
Anne Okello, a dedicated community health volunteer in Nyalenda B estate in Kisumu, is
known for her warm smile and commitment to ensuring women are medically safe.
Anne dons her blue jacket and walks through the narrow, winding streets to visit expectant
mothers every morning. She checks their well-being, provides essential health education, and
ensures they attend prenatal appointments.
One afternoon, during her rounds, Anne visited a young woman named Amina, who was in
the late stages of her pregnancy. As Anne monitored Amina's progress, she noticed Amina's
swollen ankles, and she complained of persistent headaches and blurred vision. Alarm bells
rang in Anne's mind; these were signs of preeclampsia, a potentially life-threatening
condition.
"Amina, we need to get you to the hospital right away," Anne said, her voice calm but urgent.
Amina looked frightened but nodded in agreement, trusting Anne's judgment. Anne quickly
called for transport and helped Amina pack a small bag with essential items.
At the hospital, the doctors confirmed Anne's concerns. Amina needed immediate medical
intervention to save her and her baby's lives. Anne stayed by Amina's side, holding her hand
and offering reassuring words as the medical team prepared for an emergency cesarean
section.
Hours passed in a blur of activity and anxiety. Finally, a nurse emerged with a tiny, crying
baby wrapped in a pink blanket. "Congratulations, it's a girl!" she announced, placing the
newborn in Anne's arms. Tears of relief streamed down Anne's face as she looked at the
baby, then at Amina, who was being wheeled out of surgery, still groggy but stable.
Anne gently placed the baby in Amina's arms. "You did it, Amina. Both of you are safe
now," she said softly. Amina looked at her daughter with a mixture of exhaustion and
overwhelming love. "Thank you, Anne. I couldn't have done this without you," she
whispered.
Over the next few days, Anne visited Amina and her baby girl regularly. She ensured they
had everything they needed and connected them with local support groups for new mothers.
Amina, though still recovering, began to regain her strength, buoyed by the support of her
community and the bond she was forming with her daughter.
Anne's dedication and compassion not only saved two lives but wove a new thread of hope
into the fabric of the community. She knew that maternal health was not just about medical
care; it was about nurturing, support, and the belief that every mother and child deserved a
chance at a better future.
Anne is happy to continue her work, one mother and one baby at a time, nurturing hope and
building a healthier, stronger community.