Kenyans in Worcester, Massachusetts to Raise Funds for Kenyan Woman Hospitalized for Two Months with Covid-19
The Kenyan community in Worcester, Massachusetts has organized a fundraiser in support of a Kenyan woman who was hospitalized for two months after contracting Covid-19.
Catherine Mwaura, a mother of two, was rushed St. Vincent's Hospital in Worcester in an ambulance on May 17th and was admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU).
She spent more than two weeks in ICU fighting for her life before she was transferred to the Whittier Rehabilitation Hospital in Northborough in mid-June.
"I don't know how I contracted the virus but I suspect it was either at a homecare agencies visit or nursing home that I work for. I was taking care of so many people with the virus there and a good number painfully passed away under my helpless watch with my colleagues," she said in an interview.
"I did not have any symptoms all this time I was working in the two locations. We were taking all the precautions necessary including a full protective suit when working with the Covid-19 patients. I just felt extremely sick one morning and called an emergency."
Mwaura was discharged from the hospital on July 16th and is now recuperating at home but the ordeal left her struggling financially.
Friends and well-wishers have organized a fundraiser on Sunday, August 2nd towards her welfare.
"We were just shocked at how this disease affected Dr. Mwaura. She was so close to the verge of death but God is great she has just managed to fight and recover. Now as a community, we thought it is good that we come together and raise some funds for her welfare as she is windowed with no one else to help pay her bills for close to the two months she was hospitalized," said Rev. Ben Njuru, one of the organizers.
The event will be held at True Vine Ministries Church at 65 Southbridge Street from 2 pm to 6 pm under strict social distancing rules.
"Those who can’t make it for the physical event can donate through CashApp and all donations will be highly appreciated," said Pastor Njuru.
Donations by CashApp can be channeled to $WinnieNjoroge (7742792697) or $CathyMwaura (508-371-5614).