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August 27, 2024
Community health workers (CHWs) across the globe are unsung heroes who often go beyond the call of duty to save lives. In Busia County, Kenya, I followed Anastasia, a dedicated community health promoter, and her supervisor, Laura, as they made household visits to Anastasia’s village. Trusted by everyone, Anastasia is not just a health worker but a key figure in the community’s well-being.
CHW Anastasia during her visit with the young mother Joy Lynn.
During one visit, we met Joy Lynn, a new mother, and her 3-month-old daughter. Joy had noticed her baby becoming fussier and eating less but hadn’t thought much of it. Anastasia quickly realized something was wrong when she observed the baby’s ribs sinking deeply with each breath—a classic sign of pneumonia.
Joy Lynn and her 3-month-old baby.
With patience and care, Anastasia explained the seriousness of the situation to Joy Lynn and the urgent need for hospital treatment. She also took the time to educate Joy Lynn on how to improve ventilation in her home in order to help prevent such illnesses in the future. To ensure the baby could be seen promptly, Anastasia wrote a referral that allowed the family to bypass the usual wait at the hospital.
Joy Lynn’s husband prepares to take her and the baby to hospital.
The swift action didn’t stop there. Anastasia next called Joy’s husband, who arrived shortly on a motorcycle to take his wife and daughter to the hospital. Thanks to Anastasia’s keen observation and knowledge and the trust she built in the community, the baby received the care she needed.
This story is a powerful reminder of the life-saving impact that CHWs have in their communities. They are the frontline, bridging gaps in healthcare and ensuring even the most vulnerable receive timely intervention.
This blog post is authored by Martha Rebour, our recently appointed Executive Director, US.