This archive report was first published on 16 August 2019.
Kenyan politician Ken Okoth, the Member of Parliament for Kibra, has been bravely sharing his journey with stage four colorectal cancer. The disease has spread to his liver, and he is undergoing chemotherapy treatment.
Okoth shared a photo of himself undergoing treatment, which elicited reactions from his followers who empathized with the celebrated legislator.
He told the Standard last month, 'I was diagnosed with stage four colorectal cancer with metastases to the liver.'
Okoth's followers have been sending him messages of goodwill, with many expressing admiration for his bravery in documenting his journey with cancer.
Kenya West, a Twitter user, wrote, 'I admire the bravery in Ken Okoth's battle with cancer, here's a man not afraid to document his journey unlike many public officials who hide it all.'
Okoth has been open about the challenges of undergoing chemotherapy, stating, 'Chemo drugs brutal on the skin and immunity system.'
He also spoke about the financial burden of seeking cancer treatment in Kenya, saying, 'I could not afford the US because it was too expensive. My wife is from Europe, where the cost is more affordable and I could get a residence permit quickly for the duration of the treatment.'
Okoth's story has sparked a conversation about the need for cancer care to be a national priority in Kenya.
