This archive report was first published on 23 August 2019.
On August 23, 2019, Dan Matakayia's journey to undergo surgery in the US took a dramatic turn when Face Forward International agreed to cover all his expenses.
Just a few days prior, Matakayia had shared his story with Nairobi News, appealing for financial help to travel to the US with his guide for the much-needed surgery. He had suffered acid burns in 2013, which left him visually impaired and with a breathing problem due to his blocked nose.
Thanks to the efforts of his supporters, who started a hashtag #TembeaNaDan on Twitter to raise Sh600,000, Matakayia had already received Sh120,000 by day three. His dream of leaving the country on August 25, 2019, was within reach.
However, it was not until Wednesday evening that Matakayia received the good news that his and his guide's expenses would be taken care of by Face Forward International, an organisation based in California, US, that provides emotional support to victims of domestic violence.
“God answered my prayers and we are finally leaving for the States as early planned,” Matakayia told Nairobi News on phone.
With his expenses covered, the money raised through the campaign #TembeaNaDan will now be channeled to his foundation, Dan Shieshie Organization, which helps victims of domestic violence and campaigns against the over-the-counter sale of corrosive chemicals and acids.
On September 21, 2013, Matakayia was attacked with acid by his wife, leaving him with severe burns on his face, which resulted in visual impairment and a breathing problem.
