The triplets.
For Evans Mairura of Bomonyama Village in Bogetenga Ward, Kisii, happiness came in threes before quickly shifting to concern.
When he learned that his wife had safely delivered triplets (named Joan, Joshua and Jovin) at Kisii Teaching and Referral Hospital, Mairura felt immediate happiness and relief that the long wait had concluded, but as time passed, the weight of reality settled in.
Just two years prior, Mairura and his wife had welcomed twins, making the birth of three additional children bring their total to five.
“I gave thanks to God, but soon I found myself wondering how we would cope,” Mairura stated, his voice calm but weary.
Mairura depends on occasional work on farms and at construction sites when opportunities arise.
Some days he earns a modest amount; other days, nothing at all.
The accumulating hospital bill, he explains, exceeds anything he can possibly gather.
“My wife continues her stay at the referral hospital as doctors monitor her condition and the infants,” he mentioned, noting that each day that passes increases the expense and, with it, his anxiety about bringing his family home.
“I long to be with my children, yet without assistance, I don’t know how long they will remain hospitalized,” Mairura remarked.
Neighbors portray Mairura as diligent and softly spoken, and since the news spread, a few villagers have contributed food and moral support, though it falls short of covering the medical costs.
The father of five has publicly requested the Kisii County Government to consider forgiving the hospital bill, and to compassionate individuals to assist the family during what he called the most challenging period of his life.
As he spoke, the giggles of his two-year-old twins came from the house behind him, reminding him of both the gift and responsibility now upon him.
“I trust that with help, this ordeal can transform back into the blessing I prayed for,” he said.