"I'm 29kgs”: Barber Sam Kitiki shares heartbreaking health update, asks for help
This story has significance for readers across Kenya and beyond.
- Barber Sam Kitiki posted a deeply personal video on social media revealing his cancer has worsened significantly
- Kitiki disclosed he weighs just 29kg and that visible signs of the illness have appeared on his mouth and lips
- The barber appealed to Kenyans to support his small barbershop, which he has been relying on to fund his medical treatment
Kenyan barber Sam Kitiki has broken the hearts of many online after sharing a selfie-style video update revealing that his cancer battle has taken a sharp turn for the worse.
In the clip posted on Instagram on Monday, August 17, on-screen text showed Kitiki at 29 kilograms, with the disease now visibly affecting his mouth and lips.
The sombre video carried an urgent tone as he appealed directly to Kenyans for help with his treatment costs.
How is barber Sam Kitiki's cancer?
What makes Kitiki's situation particularly difficult is the impossible trade-off he has been forced to make.
Rather than giving up, he channelled money meant for his medication into keeping his small barbershop afloat, hoping that a steady stream of customers would allow him to cover both his treatment and his running costs.
That gamble has not paid off. There are now days when no customers come at all, leaving him unable to afford consistent medication, which he says has contributed directly to his deteriorating condition.
"The biggest challenge right now is not just the illness itself, but the stress and lack of consistent medication - something that has been caused by my struggle to keep my small barbershop running," Kitiki wrote in the post.
He was candid about how close to the edge he has come, noting that he does not want to give up but that the journey is wearing him down.
In the video, Kitiki made a heartfelt appeal, asking Kenyans not necessarily for direct donations but for the simple act of visiting his barbershop, getting a haircut, or recommending his services to others.
He believes that consistent business could give him a realistic chance of sustaining his treatment without having to beg.
"I believe in working hard and earning my living with dignity," he said, adding that he wants to keep fighting and is grateful to everyone who has supported him previously.
The video quickly drew an outpouring of concern and prayer from followers online.
@lizsonia_the_great:
"I pray for healing upon you, Sam."
@blessedetemesi_keshi:
"May God come through; praying for you."
@dgohniehairarts:
"Keep grinding."
@feizah_254:
"I wish you a speedy recovery and healing."
Source: TUKO.co.ke
Reporting originally appeared via TUKO. Read the full source for additional context.