Janet’s Story
When Janet walked through the doors of Kapsowar Mission Hospital early in her pregnancy, she carried more than just the weight of new life — she carried the grief of loss. She had already experienced one stillbirth at another hospital, and she feared it could happen again.
This time, though, something was different. Because she came early for her first prenatal visit, our team was able to run the right tests — and what we found changed everything.
Our team discovered Janet had diabetes, and her blood sugar levels were dangerously high.
In many parts of rural Kenya, diabetes in pregnancy can be devastating. Most families can’t afford glucometers to check blood sugar at home, and many don’t have refrigeration to safely store insulin. For that reason, diabetic mothers are often admitted frequently to the hospital — not because they’re sick, but because it’s the only safe way to monitor and manage their care.
Janet worked closely with our doctors and nurses, faithfully coming to the clinic and following her new insulin plan. They checked her blood sugar regularly, helped her manage her diet, and watched her baby’s growth carefully — every step of the way.
Earlier this year, all that perseverance paid off. Janet delivered a healthy baby girl.
After spending a week with our daughter in our newborn unit, she carried him home in her arms — alive, healthy, and thriving.
Janet and her baby girl at Kapsowar earlier this year in February 2024.
Janet named her baby girl Kimberly, in honor of Dr. Kimberly Walhof, our OB-GYN.
When Janet returned for a routine checkup recently, she was all smiles as she reunited with Dr. Kimberly—this time with her own little Kimberly in her arms, now nine months old, healthy, and thriving.
A joyful reunion — Dr. Kimberly catching up with her tiny namesake in her office!
As Janet reflected on her experience in Kapsowar, she spoke with heartfelt appreciation:
“In 2025, I went to another hospital—but they didn’t take good care of us, and we sadly lost a baby there. And when I first heard I had diabetes, I didn’t think I’d ever carry a pregnancy successfully.”
She continued:
“But here in Kapsowar, I’ve been cared for far beyond what I expected. They do such excellent work, and I’ve been happy since the very beginning. Everyone here is so loving—it feels like home. I have my babies now, and I’m full of joy.
I thank Dr. Kimberly for caring for me throughout my pregnancy, and Dr. Jack for his support after delivery. We’re starting a new journey, and I pray that God gives us strength as we raise our children.”
Janet’s story is a reminder of why early prenatal care matters — and why your support makes all the difference.
Because when mothers like Janet can access care early, hope wins.