At Hospice Care Kenya, we’re privileged to work alongside incredible people who bring hope, comfort and dignity to those living with life-limiting illness. Today we recognise Elizabeth Odalo, Co-ordinator and Lead Nurse at Siaya Roselyne Hospice.
We have worked closely with Elizabeth for many years, supporting the development of palliative care services in Siaya County. Her compassion, skill and commitment have touched countless lives, and her story is one of dedication and service.
Elizabeth successfully trained many volunteers under our UK Aid–funded project in 2021 and 2022, and she is currently part of our Every Child Counts project to develop vital children’s services. But her journey into palliative care began much earlier:
“My journey into palliative care began in March 2006 when I took a volunteer course at Nairobi Hospice. After the training, I started volunteering during day care sessions and that’s when I realised my passion was in palliative care and taking care of cancer patients.
I later moved on to Kisumu Hospice, where I volunteered from 2007 until early 2009. This led me to co-found Siaya Roselyne Hospice in 2009, together with Dr Onyango, who has since retired after many years of dedicated service to patients. I’ve been here ever since.”
“To me, palliative care means holistic care – providing love, support, and guidance to patients who are terminally ill. It’s about being there for them in every way they need.“
“The best part of my job is hearing positive feedback from patients. When a patient overcomes cancer, or when they’re pain free, I’m always overjoyed. I also love when patients and their caregivers appreciate my work. I especially enjoy going for home visits, training Community Health Promoters (CHPs) on palliative care, creating awareness, and doing follow-ups with patients.
There are, of course, challenges. It’s heartbreaking when I have to let go of a patient I’ve grown attached to. And it’s painful to see patients struggling financially, unable to afford medicines or food.
But what I’m most proud of is the impact I’ve been able to make through training. I’ve trained over 180 community health volunteers, who have reached more than 1,000 households. That means more people with palliative care needs are receiving quality healthcare, and no one is being left behind.”
Elizabeth’s unwavering dedication has helped ensure that palliative care in Siaya County continues to grow and reach those most in need. We are honoured to work alongside her and look forward to many more years of partnership.