Nurse Sylvia Celebrates Reduced Waterborne Diseases Thanks to Clean Water!

Last year, your gift unlocked the potential for a brighter future for Nurse Sylvia Lusai, her patients, and the other staff at Shihome Dispensary. Since then, they have had clean, reliable water. Your contribution has made a significant impact. Thank you for making a difference!

"For starters, I don't have to pay anyone to bring me water because it's right at the doorstep. Secondly, water is readily available and safe!"

Before the Well Installation

Like many healthcare workers in Kenya, 40-year-old nurse Sylvia Lusai is responsible for ensuring that she and her patients have access to the water they need. Before last year’s water intervention, this task stole her time and resources, since she often personally paid for someone to collect water when the center had none.

The previous water source - a community spring.

"Initially, we were using rainwater, but during dry seasons, I had to send someone outside the premises to look for water, and that would cost money. I would say it was expensive because we used to pay people with our own money so as to bring us water. It was also a waste of my time. Also, the safety of the water collected from outside wasn't known," recalled Sylvia.

Since the Well Installation

Your generous gift last year was more than a simple donation; it was a powerful statement about your commitment to the health of this community and Sylvia’s future. By supporting the water solution, you made clean water an everyday reality, fostering hope for a brighter future.

Sylvia fills handwashing containers.

Reliable and clean water lays the groundwork for improved health, education, and economic possibilities, allowing people to thrive. We frequently hear from those we interview that "water is life!"

"Managing patients has become easier than before since I don't have to wait for anyone to bring water. First-dose drugs are being administered as required, since we have water onsite, unlike before when they would take the drugs at home due to a lack of water," Nurse Lusai shared.

"The number of patients coming in with diarrheal infections has reduced. That is a major achievement for this facility and [the] surrounding community. The fact that waterborne illnesses have reduced makes me a very happy member of staff," she celebrated.

"Currently, we are in the process of constructing a maternity wing, although the building is still at the foundation stage," shared Nurse Lusai, excited about the future.

The Future is Looking Bright!

A year ago, you made a difference for Sylvia and the other staff and patients at the Shihome Dispensary. This is just the first chapter of their story as access to clean water continues to improve their lives!

At The Water Project, we value sustainability and want to ensure that people continue to thrive. We commit to monitoring this project to ensure the water is always flowing and safe to consume. We inspect the system hardware, track water availability, conduct sanitary inspections, and collect water quality samples to identify risks. We work with our team on the ground to resolve them.

You gave Sylvia a crucial tool for achieving her dreams: access to clean water. Together, we can excitedly expect that with this precious resource, her enthusiasm and courage will help her fulfill her personal dreams and provide improved care for her patients.

"I'm happy to have stayed healthy for the last twelve months and will surely take advantage of this waterpoint to transform my life. I would love to build my own home as soon as possible. With water nearby, there's no doubt it will be easier!" Nurse Lusai said.