Earlier this week, we had the privilege of visiting one of our oldest #KijabeBabies! We arrived at her compound, accompanied by her granddaughter, who was also born here. “Karibuni!” she greeted us upon seeing us. Meet Cucu Waceke, a 91-year-old whose family has lived in Kijabe for 101 years!
Born in 1934, when we were still known as Theodora, Cucu has lived through nearly a century of our growth and transformation. She has witnessed the hospital evolve from the small missionary clinic to the over 300-bed referral and tertiary centre it is today.
“I also gave birth to my son in Kijabe. Even my granddaughter and her children - were born at the hospital,” she says with a smile, occasionally looking at her old photos on the walls of her living room, as though digging deep into her memory.
“I have always come to Kijabe every time I get sick. With every visit, I marvel at the advancement in healthcare and the equipment I find there,” she adds, her voice punctuated by the sound of firewood rattling beside her, filling the silence between her pauses.
Cucu retired in 1991, but that doesn’t stop her from working! She remains active, finding joy in one of her greatest passions—knitting.
“My hands are never idle. I knit pillows and sweaters with the same patience and dedication that has carried me through life,” she says. “I love knitting so much that I often lose track of time,” she adds with a hearty laugh.
Cucu is not just a witness of our journey—she is part of our legacy. Her faith in God has been her anchor. Her message to young people is simple and profound: “Believe in God and live in Him, and you will always live happily,” she concludes.
She gifts her hand-knitted pillows with love, leaving pieces of her heart with family and friends. Her wisdom and selflessness continue to bless those around her.
Today, as we continue celebrating our #110-year legacy, we honor Cucu and are moved by her remarkable life story—one that has been woven into the fabric of this community. We wish her good health, happiness, and many more years of joy!
Do you have a #KijabeBaby story? Let’s inspire others together! Share your journey with us at [email protected]
#110YearsLegacy
#CompassionateHealthcare
