Welcoming a child with a disability can have a significant impact on a family, often requiring that one or more members step into the role of caregiver (Government of Kenya, Ministry of Education, 2018). The human heart is naturally inclined to love, a trait demonstrated by caregivers like Mark, Shanice, and Lillian. Taking on the role of caregiver calls for not only emotional resilience but also tremendous passion and unconditional love—qualities that help sustain caregivers through the emotional and physical challenges of supporting persons with different abilities. Even in the face of fatigue and exhaustion, caregivers find strength in their unwavering compassion and commitment.
Caregivers for persons living with disabilities (PWDs) in Kenya often balance multiple responsibilities but still choose to provide essential support, ensuring that those in their care experience comfort and dignity (National Council for Persons with Disabilities, 2014). They serve as a crucial support system for PWDs, demonstrating that love and community truly know no bounds.
For example, Lillian, a student at the Kenya Institute of Mass Communication, also serves as a caregiver to her classmate James, who lost both hands in an accident. Lillian makes sure James is well-fed and comfortable while at school. Their bond is evident during shared moments at a popular kiosk near campus, where Lillian feeds James local street food called “smocha” and a cold Fanta orange. Lillian explains that empathy drives her to help whenever she can.
Mark, another caregiver for James, provides further support by assisting with daily activities such as trips to the bathroom, carrying books, and studying together. Thanks to the unwavering support of caregivers like Lillian and Mark, James feels fortunate to have a strong support system that enriches his school experience and helps him thrive.
Shanice, who works in the school’s office of corporate communications, supports Verah, a student with a disability, by assisting her during end-of-term exams. Through her support, Verah is able to participate fully alongside her peers in an environment where most students are able-bodied. This not only highlights Verah and James’ unique abilities but also powerfully demonstrates that they are truly ‘abled differently.’
Thanks to the unwavering support of caregivers like Lillian and Mark, James feels fortunate to have a strong support system that enriches his school experience and helps him thrive.
Caregiving lives in the quiet moments, a shared meal, a helping hand, a walk to class together. This piece is a gentle reminder that we all have the capacity to show up for one another. Beautifully told.
Thank you, Mr. Langat, for your comments on this article about how we appraise caregivers for their role in assisting people living with disabilities within our society.