This archive report was first published on 20 June 2020.
As the world grapples with the Covid-19 pandemic, many people are finding creative ways to cope with the challenges of lockdown and isolation. For Fridah Mlemwa, a pregnant innovation officer at the Kenya Red Cross Society, painting has become a source of comfort and joy.
With her husband and in-laws, as well as her mother, all living under one roof, Fridah's household has become a self-contained bubble. To minimize the risk of exposure to the virus, her family takes turns shopping and sanitizing the house, and Fridah's husband accompanies her whenever she steps out.
Despite the precautions, Fridah admits to feeling scared and overwhelmed by the monthly hospital visits she must make for prenatal care. However, she is reassured by the hospital's standards and the guidance of her gynecologists in Nairobi and Mombasa.
Originally, Fridah had planned a more active and social pregnancy, attending prenatal yoga classes, meeting with other expectant mothers, and enjoying outings with her husband. But with the current travel restrictions and risks, she has had to adapt and find new ways to stay positive.
It was during one of these moments of uncertainty that Fridah stumbled upon the Baby Center App, which shows the size of a baby weekly as it grows in shapes of fruits and vegetables. The app sparked a desire in her to paint the fruits, a hobby she had enjoyed since her teenage years.
With 11 paintings completed so far, Fridah has created an album of 'bump fruits' that she hopes to show her child with excitement and relive the moment as a memory. The baby has even given her several kicks during her painting sessions, indicating that it enjoys the activity too!
Fridah's story is a testament to the power of creativity and positivity in overcoming challenges. As she prepares to welcome her first child, she remains optimistic and focused on the joy that lies ahead.
