This archive report was first published on 20 July 2020.
Benda Kithaka's Crusade Against Cervical Cancer ¶
Published on July 20, 2020
Benda Kithaka, co-founder of Women4Cancer, is working tirelessly to combat cervical cancer through early detection and treatment, particularly in rural areas.
Her journey began in 2010 when her little sister was diagnosed with pre-cancer of the cervix. This experience sparked a desire to educate communities about the importance of cervical cancer screening and treatment.
With the help of her team, Kithaka started the NGO Women4Cancer and began visiting communities to raise awareness about cervical cancer. In 2018, they launched the STOP Cervical Cancer Initiative to further their mission.
However, Kithaka's personal loss in 2019, when a dear friend's cancer recurred, led her to refocus her efforts on supporting cancer survivors. She is now working with survivors through the #KILELE Challenge, a project that aims to help them overcome self-limiting beliefs and social stigma.
The #KILELE Challenge brings together a group of cancer survivors and caregivers who will climb to the summit of Mt. Kenya. The goal is to help the survivors overcome physical, emotional, and financial barriers, and to ensure that they can summit the mountain.
According to Kithaka, women are particularly vulnerable to stigma associated with cervical cancer, including effects of treatment, social and cultural stigma, questioning of spiritual beliefs, and financial challenges.
Despite these challenges, Kithaka remains committed to educating communities about the importance of cervical cancer screening and treatment. Through the #KILELE Challenge, she hopes to sensitize others that prevention is better than cure.
