Popular Kenyan musician Marya has shared the devastating moment her life changed forever after suffering a stroke while caring for her baby.
In an emotional video shared by comedian Eric Omondi, the “Chokoza” hitmaker detailed how what started as an ordinary morning quickly turned into a medical emergency that has left her wheelchair-bound and struggling financially.
Marya described the terrifying moment when her body suddenly failed her while she was with her child.
“I woke up feeling well one morning when I was okay when I was holding my baby, and I just tried to hold my baby tightly near me, and my hands just gave up,” she recalled.
“I tried to stand up, nichukue mtoto nimbembeleze, but my legs also gave up,” she continued, explaining that her left side is now completely numb.
The musician was subsequently diagnosed with an ischemic stroke.
According to the World Stroke Organization, an ischemic stroke occurs when a blood vessel supplying the brain is obstructed, typically by a blood clot, leading to brain cell death due to lack of oxygen and requiring urgent treatment to restore blood flow and facilitate recovery.
Marya’s condition has dramatically altered her daily life, requiring constant medical attention and rehabilitation.
“I need to do physio every day, and I also need a caregiver,” she revealed.
The stroke has also devastated her career prospects, with performance bookings being cancelled due to her inability to take the stage.
“The shows I have were cancelled since they saw my situation since I can not perform. The bills are also piling up. I feel like my life took a 360 turn. It is not easy,” the mother of two shared.
Eric Omondi has taken the initiative to mobilize support for Marya, appealing to fans and well-wishers for financial assistance.
“She needs Us…Her bills have piled…Please send whatever you can to her number 0719210779(NAME: MARY MAINA) GOD BLESS YOU,” he posted.
The appeal has resonated with many Kenyans online, who remember Marya’s contributions to the music scene over the years.
Social media users rallied behind the artist, sharing messages of encouragement.
@conceitedjaymes wrote: “Wow life’s turns are unexpected, this could be any of us, any day, let’s help wholeheartedly.”
@johnmusumba shared his own recovery story: “My real story. I woke in 2023 Dec and I couldn’t walk, but who is God manze I am back on my feet, this is not a joke man. Marya, you will make it out of this coz I did and we did Mungu mbele.”
@catherinekeli254 suggested: “A concert should be held for her for the bills.”