Monica Atieno is not a patient at Tenwek Hospital, but for the past four months she has been a familiar presence at the facility.The widow reportedly travels regularly from Homa Bay County, leaving her children behind in order to spend time at the hospital.According to people familiar with her situation, Atieno says she has little choice but to make the trip despite the challenges it creates for her family.
Atieno’s visits to the hospital have drawn attention from other patients and visitors who often see her around the premises. While she is not receiving medical treatment herself, she is reportedly at the hospital to attend to a personal matter that requires her frequent presence.Details about the specific circumstances have not been publicly disclosed.
According to sources who spoke about the situation, the trips from Homa Bay to Bomet County, where Tenwek Hospital is located, can be demanding both financially and emotionally. Travel between the two areas involves several hours on the road, and the repeated journeys have reportedly taken a toll on her daily routine.Despite this, Atieno is said to continue making the journey regularly.
The situation has also affected her family life. Atieno reportedly leaves her children in Homa Bay when she travels, relying on relatives and neighbors to assist with their care.People familiar with the family say the arrangement has been difficult but necessary under the circumstances.
Tenwek Hospital is known as a referral facility serving patients from various parts of the country, and it regularly receives visitors from distant counties.According to hospital observers, it is not uncommon for relatives and caregivers to spend extended periods near the hospital while supporting loved ones receiving treatment.
Atieno’s case reflects the challenges some families face when medical care requires long stays away from home.