At just 30 years old, Roselyne Owuor from Kisumu, Kenya, was already the mother of seven. Pregnancy after pregnancy came with little time to heal, leaving her body worn down and her spirit stretched thin.

Her only attempt at family planning years earlier had ended badly: a contraceptive implant caused prolonged bleeding. The experience left her frightened and distrustful. Layer onto that the myths whispered in her community, and a husband firmly against contraceptives, and Roselyne felt cornered. She was torn between caring for her children and protecting her health.

That’s when she met Wilkista Juma Owinyo, a Community Health Promoter (CHP) with 17 years of experience. Wilkista immediately recognized Roselyne’s vulnerability and made her a priority.

After Roselyne’s seventh delivery, Wilkista sat down with her under the shade of a mango tree and gently began to share the facts: Why spacing births can restore a woman’s health and strength, how modern contraceptives are safe and effective when used properly and that Roselyne had a right to make informed choices about her own body.

Together, they made a plan: a three-year contraceptive implant, paired with Wilkista’s ongoing support.

The decision wasn’t easy. Her husband objected. Neighbors doubted her. Myths swirled around her. But Roselyne found the courage to say yes. And this time, everything was different. No complications, no pain, she had more energy and attention for each of her children. Additionally, she got the healing and recovery she had long been denied.

“I finally feel in control of my health and my children’s future,” Roselyne says proudly.

Her story shines a light on the very real barriers women face, persistent myths, male resistance, cultural pushback, and service gaps. But it also shows what’s possible when women have trusted community health promoters by their side.

Roselyne’s transformation is proof that family planning isn’t just about avoiding pregnancies. It’s about dignity, health, and the chance to thrive. It’s about CHPs who walk with women step by step, ensuring every mother has the opportunity to make life-changing choices for herself and her family.

This World Contraception Day, Roselyne reminds us why breaking barriers and building bridges to access matters. Because when women like her are empowered with knowledge, support, and safe choices, entire generations benefit.