We joined the Kenya Red Cross, again, today to follow-up on a few clients, and by far, this day affected me the most. After meeting Evelyn Akoth yesterday, I was determined to follow-up with her and help find ways to support her. She is a widow with three young children, ages 8, 4, and 5 months. We brought with us some daily household items, including PUR, that may have help lighten the load a bit and hoped that our visit encouraged her.
Being a mother myself, it was hard to see someone who clearly loves their children, struggle to sustain their lives. With looking into her ever-avoiding eyes, it was undeniable that this mother was tired and thankful for any type of relief. We bonded on levels beyond motherhood and it was obvious that our visit gave her hope. Her pride and persistence is nothing we can take credit for, but I believe our encouragement helped her realize that her strength is not unnoticed.
It was hard leaving knowing that I would return to my semi-privileged life in the states and she would still be in her one room house. My sadness was not pity, yet more resentful that we couldn’t really keep in touch and go through this struggle together. Regardless, her story will stay in my heart and continue to encourage me to persist.
-Amber