This archive report was first published on 7 December 2019.
December 7, 2019
Meet Anne Njeri, a 35-year-old woman who has defied the odds to make a difference in the lives of disabled children. Born with physical hemiparesis, Anne's journey to self-discovery and empowerment began at a tender age.
Her mother, a single parent, worked tirelessly to provide for Anne and her two sisters. Despite the challenges they faced, Anne's mother instilled in her the importance of self-love and independence.
At the age of nine, Anne underwent surgery that enabled her to take her first steps. This life-changing experience sparked a desire in her to help other disabled children.
After completing a journalism course in 2008, Anne started working as a radio presenter in Korogocho. Her shows focused on children, and she frequently interacted with disabled children, rekindling her childhood dream of helping them.
With the support of her mother and a well-wisher, Catherine Wagner, a missionary, Anne opened a day care centre for mentally and physically challenged children in 2009. The centre eventually became a home for abandoned disabled children.
However, the rented room soon became too small, and Anne had to start house hunting in Ruai. A local church offered a rental house that could accommodate her and the children, and they moved in 2009.
As the number of children grew, Anne found it challenging to balance her work and responsibilities at the home. She eventually resigned as a radio presenter in 2011 to focus on the children's home.
With the help of a friend, Anne launched the 1,000 Golden Hearts campaign in 2016, which raised funds to purchase land and establish projects such as poultry, greenhouse, cattle, and biogas production.
Today, Anne's children's home, Compassionate Hands for the Disabled Foundation, provides a comfortable life for 94 children. The home offers therapy, medication, counselling, and special equipment to cater to the children's needs.
Anne's story is a testament to the power of love, compassion, and determination. Her mother's unwavering support and encouragement inspired her to pursue her dreams and make a difference in the lives of others.
