Kenyan Hero Succumbs to Stage 3 Gastric Cancer After Years of Resilience
Kenyans have been left heartbroken following the untimely death of Mathew Nyamlori, a man whose life story of resilience and determination inspired many across the nation. Nyamlori, who was diagnosed with stage 3 gastric cancer in October 2023, passed away on January 20, 2025, just hours after making a heartfelt appeal on Facebook for support to continue his fight against the disease.
A Story of Unmatched Perseverance
Nyamlori first captured national attention due to his extraordinary educational journey. He famously sat for the Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE) exams nine times before finally securing a place at prestigious national schools including Kanga High School, Maseno School, and The Nairobi School, commonly referred to as “Patch.” His resilience saw him graduate from Kenyatta University, an achievement that was widely celebrated, especially given his background and struggles.
However, his victory was short-lived. Shortly after completing his university education and taking on contractual roles, Nyamlori was diagnosed with gastric cancer. In his emotional Facebook post dated November 12, 2024, he revealed the immense challenges he faced, including financial struggles and the toll the disease had taken on his body.
“I have fought cancer from last year minus job or any income, depending on well-wishers. Cancer is not a death sentence with proper medication, diet, and a positive state of mind. I will defeat this monster,” Nyamlori wrote.
Despite his optimism, Nyamlori highlighted the financial burden of cancer treatment, particularly for individuals without insurance coverage. He appealed to Kenyans and prominent figures such as Hon. Jalang’o, Eric Omondi, and Lynn Ngugi for support to help him raise funds for his treatment.
A Nation in Mourning
Nyamlori’s passing has sparked an outpouring of grief on social media, with Kenyans paying tribute to his unwavering spirit.
Francis Onyata, who knew Nyamlori personally, shared:
“I personally met him during my tenure at the University. He was such a gentleman. He had done KCPE 8 times & finally graduated from University. Even before he could settle, cancer kicked in. You fought a good fight, Mathew Nyamlori. RIP.”
Velma Barasa echoed the sentiments of many, describing Nyamlori as a fighter:
“Ratego Mathew Nyamlori has lost the battle today. Rest well, Ratego. You’ve left behind a legacy of courage and determination. The pain was unbearable. Cancer is a demon. Rest well, Mathew Nyamlori.”
Another mourner, Kiprono Filex, expressed his devastation:
“Am so devastated to hear about the passing of Mathew Nyamlori. A fellow comrade and alumni of Kenyatta University. His story was that of hard work and persistence. The hurting part of his story is that after struggling in campus life for nine years, cancer came in just immediately after graduation. That’s how life can be so unfair.”
A Life of Inspiration Cut Short
Nyamlori’s final Facebook post, shared on November 12, 2024, gave a glimpse into his struggles and his unrelenting hope. He recounted being admitted to Aga Khan Hospital in Kisumu in critical condition, where he could only swallow small amounts of water due to severe complications.
“Cancer needs money. Treating cancer is very, very expensive, especially if you don’t have insurance cover. Tests alone are costly. How I pray God to touch your heart to remember me,” he pleaded in his post.
He also thanked Kenyans who had stood by him throughout his battle, sharing posters and posts urging others to support him.
Kenya’s Cancer Crisis
Nyamlori’s death highlights the growing cancer burden in Kenya, where the cost of treatment remains prohibitively expensive for many. Without adequate insurance coverage, countless individuals like Nyamlori are left to rely on the goodwill of well-wishers.
According to the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), cancer is the third leading cause of death in the country, after infectious and cardiovascular diseases. Cases of gastric cancer, like the one that afflicted Nyamlori, are particularly aggressive, often leading to late diagnoses and limited treatment options.
A Call to Action
Nyamlori’s story serves as a call to action for policymakers and healthcare stakeholders to improve cancer care in Kenya. Affordable treatment options and increased access to early screening programs could save countless lives and prevent stories like Nyamlori’s from repeating.
A Legacy of Courage
Though his life was tragically cut short, Mathew Nyamlori’s journey will continue to inspire millions. His determination to overcome adversity and his unwavering faith in the face of immense challenges stand as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.
As Kenya mourns the loss of this courageous soul, many hope his story will spark meaningful change in the fight against cancer.
For those who wish to support other cancer patients, organizations like the Kenya Cancer Association (KENCANSA) and Faraja Cancer Support Trust provide platforms for donations and volunteering opportunities.
Rest in peace, Mathew Nyamlori. Your legacy of resilience will live on.
