Kenyan Mother Seeks Funds to Repatriate Son's Body After Failed Transplant in India

Kenyan mother Mercy Atsiaya is appealing for assistance to repatriate the body of her four-year-old son, who died in India on April 6 following complications from a bone marrow transplant intended to treat his sickle cell anaemia. 

Atsiaya, a security guard from Vihiga County, had sought medical treatment in India due to the lack of specialized care and high costs associated with such procedures in Kenya. The bone marrow transplant, during which Atsiaya donated her own marrow, initially showed promise. However, her son developed persistent coughing and chest congestion, leading to kidney failure and the need for continuous renal dialysis. 

Despite medical intervention, his condition deteriorated, resulting in his death. Atsiaya now faces the daunting task of covering morgue expenses and transporting her son's body back to Kenya for burial. She has rejected cremation, despite the mounting financial pressures, expressing her desire to provide a proper sendoff for her child. 

Her plight underscores the significant emotional and financial burdens faced by Kenyans seeking specialized medical treatment abroad. This case highlights the broader issue of healthcare accessibility and affordability in Kenya, particularly for genetic disorders like sickle cell anaemia, which is prevalent in regions such as Western Kenya. 

Limited treatment options and the high cost of medical care often force families to seek alternatives in countries like India, which offers more affordable and high-quality healthcare services. However, this journey is fraught with difficulties, including navigating foreign medical systems and the emotional stress of being away from home.