Joyce Ong’ombe’s life has been defined by pain, yet her voice, though soft, still carries hope.
From her hospital bed in India, the former teacher who later ventured into business reflects on the heartbreaking tragedies that have claimed every member of her family over the past 14 years.
Joyce Ong’ombe”I lost my husband, two daughters and a son in two separate accidents,” Joyce Ong’ombe recounted.
In 2010, a flash flood in Suswa swept away her husband, a daughter and a son.
Their bodies were found days later, leaving her with a newborn daughter, Georgina, as her only surviving family.
Joyce raised her alone, believing she had found her reason to keep going.
But on New Year’s Eve 2024, while the two were on holiday in Mombasa, a boiler in their apartment exploded.
Both suffered severe burns and were rushed to Kenyatta National Hospital. Despite desperate efforts, Georgina, then a Form Three student, died on January 14.
Joyce, who sustained 45 per cent burns, was later flown to India for specialised treatment.
From her hospital bed, she continues to endure daily pain, multiple surgeries, and a long road to healing, both physically and emotionally.
What makes her story even more striking is her resilience.
A deaconess at the Lavington SDA Church, Joyce continues to draw strength from scripture.
She says her faith remains unshaken, even when confronted by loss, trauma, and the financial strain of her treatment, which has already consumed a Sh13.7 million fund.
Supporters, including church members and former schoolmates, are organising another fundraiser to help her continue receiving care abroad.
Despite losing her husband and all three children in separate accidents, Joyce holds on to one thing: her unwavering belief that through it all, God is still in control.
By Newshub