Ekale Eleso Ekitan’s life has been one of love, loss, and quiet resilience. Born in Isiolo County during Kenya’s colonial era, she was the second of eight children. Hardship shaped her early years—only she and one sibling survived into adulthood. With no access to education, she worked tirelessly on farms, helping her family survive.At 30, she found joy in marriage and motherhood, raising three children alongside her husband, who sold khat to provide for them. Their home was filled with love, but life had other plans. One by one, she buried her children, each loss carving deeper wounds in her heart. Yet, despite the grief, she held on, determined to care for the grandchildren left in her care.Then, another blow—her husband fell ill with asthma and passed away, leaving her completely alone. With no one to lean on, she worked relentlessly to raise her grandchildren, pushing through exhaustion, poverty, and the aching loneliness of loss. But time and hardship took their toll. Her eyesight failed, arthritis stiffened her body, and soon, she could no longer leave her bed.Just when all seemed lost, a glimmer of hope emerged. In 2018, during Mama Ibado Charity’s eye surgical camp, Ekale underwent an operation that restored sight to one of her eyes. The world became visible again, and with it, a renewed sense of purpose. For the past year and a half, she has received food rations and medical care, easing the weight she had carried alone for so long.Ekale’s journey is one of unwavering strength, a testament to the sacrifices of a grandmother who refused to give up. Though her body may have weakened, her spirit remains unshaken, proving that even in the darkest moments, hope and kindness can light the way.
