Beatrice Murugi: From Athlete to Fighting for Her Health

There was a time when Beatrice Murugi’s life was measured in kilometres.

As a former Kenyan athlete, she competed in both 10KM and 21KM races. Running was more than a career. It was a way of life, and for years, Beatrice was able to use what she earned through athletics to support herself and her family.

But on 28 December 2020, her life changed.

Beatrice developed a serious stomach condition that has continued for nearly six years. What began as a health problem gradually became something that affected almost every part of her life. Her ability to work was affected, her circumstances became increasingly difficult, and she found herself struggling to provide for her 10-year-old child.

For someone whose body had once carried her through long-distance races, living with a condition that makes ordinary physical activity difficult has been especially hard.

Today, Beatrice is no longer thinking about finishing a race or preparing for the next competition. Her immediate concerns are much closer to home: getting the medical care she needs, being there for her child, and finding a way to rebuild some stability in their lives.

Beatrice was recently rescued and taken to Kerugoya Level 5 Hospital, where doctors recommended an operation. The surgery is now urgent.

She needs support for her treatment and surgery, as well as help with her child’s school fees, food, and other basic needs.

This is where her story needs more than sympathy.

Beatrice spent years using her strength and talent to build a life for herself and her family. Today, she needs people to stand with her while she works toward getting her health back.

Her next finish line is not a medal or a race result. It is getting through surgery, recovering her health, and making sure her child is cared for along the way.