Empowering Lives, One Meal at a Time In Embu-Mbeere

By Joe Mwafricah Kiboi

In the heart of Embu and Mbeere in central Kenya, amid the rustling leaves and scorching sun, an initiative was started to transform lives and illuminate the path of hope for palliative care patients.

The Embu- Mbeere Hospice Feed The Patient Programme is a collaborative effort led by the Embu-Mbeere Hospice in conjunction with partners and benevolent individuals who have made a monumental impact in our community.

The Feed the Patient Programme is a vision nurtured by compassion and is a testament to our unwavering commitment to providing holistic care, transcending the boundaries of conventional medical treatment.

At the core of this vision lies the belief that nourishment, both physical and emotional, is paramount in the healing process. Recognizing the vital role nutrition plays in healthcare, the programme endeavors to ensure that no patient faces the battle against illness on an empty stomach.

The Rotary Club of Embu
Central to the success of the Feed the Patients Programme are invaluable partners such as the Rotary Club of Embu and the Transformative Women in Leadership Network. The two groups have elevated the efforts of the Embu- Mbeere Hospice to unparalleled heights. Their unwavering support and dedication have not only provided sustenance to patients but also sowed seeds of enduring hope.

The Rotary Club of Embu, with its motto of Service Above Self, has been a beacon of philanthropy in our community. Disease prevention and treatment is one of the areas of focus for Rotary International and this commitment to enhancing healthcare aligns seamlessly with the Hospice’s mission.

Through their support, the hospice has expanded its reach, ensuring that no patient in need is left unattended. Over the years the Embu Mbeere Hospice has received donations of furniture, food and mentorship sessions from the Rotary Club of Embu. The Rotarians have also planted a fruit-tree nursery within the Hospice grounds.

Beyond the Plate
The Feed the Patients Programme is not merely about filling plates; it’s also about filling hearts with hope, resilience, and the unwavering belief in the human spirit. For patients facing the challenges of illness, a warm, nourishing meal signifies more than sustenance – it symbolizes dignity, love, and the reassurance that they are not alone in their journey.

Through this programme, we were fostering a sense of community, where patients can share their stories, find solace in one another’s experiences, and draw strength from the unity of purpose. The one-on-one sessions with doctors, counselors, nutritionists and other professionals drawn from Rotary has offered not just medical guidance but a listening ear and a compassionate heart.

In the words of Mother Teresa, “It’s not how much we give, but how much love we put into giving.” Together, let’s infuse our contributions with love, kindness, and a shared vision of a healthier, happier community.

Rotarian Kiboi is the Chief Executive Officer of Embu- Mbeere Hospice and Past President of the Rotary Club of Embu.