Kenya Trip: A Journey of Impact and Gratitude
On April 14th, Sophie Lööf, Clare Sykes, and Claudine Schafli embarked on a meaningful trip to Ngong Village in Kenya alongside The Lööf Foundation. Their destination? Kenswed Maternity Hospital, a beacon of hope in the community since its opening in 2019, in co-operation together with Zelmerlöw & Björkman Foundation, Rejlers and Goblal Relations!
Warmly welcomed by hospital staff and Maureen, the MD of Kenswed Organisation, our first day was filled with eye-opening experiences. We toured the facility, witnessing firsthand the transformative impact it has had on the community. One poignant moment was assisting Joy, a mother in labor brought to Kenswed Hospital via the hospital ambulance, whose delivery journey was smoothed by hospital staff’s swift intervention. Thanks to their care, Joy delivered a healthy baby girl via C-Section as a referral to another hospital and The Lööf Foundation was on hand to lend support as the family was not in the financial position to pay for the emergency transfer and delivery of the baby.
Conversations with staff revealed the hospital’s challenges in providing safe maternal and infant care. Esther, the lab technician, shed light on the critical role the lab plays in patient care. Kenswed Hospital offers free maternity services, including antenatal clinics and educational sessions for expecting mothers, alleviating financial burdens for families.
Venturing beyond the hospital, we visited Kenswed Technical and Vocational Training College, witnessing their diverse educational offerings. Despite facing logistical challenges due to washed-out roads, Kenswed Hospital remains a lifeline for mothers, many of whom arrive in labor on scooters or via foot.
Our second day brought another birthing ordeal; an expectant mother, Regina, was in labor but was facing difficulties when her baby boy became stuck in the birthing canal, which prolonged the delivery, causing distress to the baby. We saw firsthand the impact that was made by the use of specialised equipment like the NeoPuff machine to help the baby breathe. The NeoPuff was graciously sponsored by The Lööf Foundation. Witnessing the dedication of Kenswed’s Hospital staff reaffirmed their status as angels in the community.
Daily clinics, from dental to vaccination services, underscored the hospital’s holistic approach to healthcare. A trip to Maasai Land allowed us to extend our outreach, providing medical assistance and engaging with villagers to understand their healthcare needs. A total of 50 patients were seen that day, including an expectant mother who walked 5 km to reach the mobile clinic.
The pinnacle of our journey was a heartfelt celebration for Kenswed’s Hospital’s 400 births. Sophie Lööf shared her personal connection to childbirth and the hospital’s inception, while former patients expressed gratitude for the supportive environment Kenswed Hospital provides not only to them but also to their babies and children.
As we reflect on our time in Kenya, we’re inspired to continue supporting Kenswed’s mission. Stay tuned for a deeper dive into the hospital’s stories and staff. We’re humbled by this experience and grateful to all who strive to make a difference.