61-year-old Stephen has spent his life along the shores of Kenya’s Lake Tukana where droughts, floods, and poverty shape everyday life.
Across the region, climate change is threatening livelihoods for hundreds of thousands of families like Stephen’s, where the rising lake has already destroyed homes and businesses. It’s been 10 years since the lake flooded and he lost everything. But despite this, Stephen ran a successful small business, which allowed him to travel to major cities in Kenya and provide for his family.
But everything changed for Stephen when he was diagnosed with diabetes. His diabetes led to complications and after three months in hospital, the decision was made to amputate his leg.
Before the disease, I could travel long distances for [my] business. But after my leg was amputated, life became hard and unbearable.
Stephen, who is a father to twelve young children, relied on travelling to earn a living to support his family. Unable to afford a prosthetic leg to move around, his lack of access to essential equipment meant that he couldn’t continue to work.
Stephen struggled with the financial and emotional burden of his new reality. He told us about the stigma and discrimination that are deeply rooted in a society where children with disabilities have often been seen as a curse. Although things are improving, many people are unaware of disability rights.
A new start
A year after his diagnosis, Stephen found support through a disability group, which transformed his outlook on life.
“They helped lift my spirits and stop destructive thoughts,” he told us. “I was advised, encouraged, and I slowly accepted my condition and learned how to live with it.”
With the support and expertise of CBM’s local partner, the group formed a Village Savings and Loan Association (VSLA), where members save collectively and support each other with small loans. Stephen was elected as chair and used his loan to start a small shop.
Today things are very different for Stephen, who is now hopeful for the future. The threat of climate change remains, but at CBM we know that when people like Stephen have the support they need to adapt, a more resilient and fuller life is possible.
How you can help
With your support, more people like Stephen can receive the equipment and money they need to build a sustainable future for themselves and for their families.
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