Reggae entertainer and health advocate Mary Jahmby Koikai died on Tuesday morning at the age of 38 after being admitted for an undisclosed illness.
This comes a few days after she revealed she needed blood and appealed to anyone who could help her in her Instagram stories.
"Hi fam, I'm currently admitted at the Pioneer Ward Nairobi Hospital and I kindly require Blood O positive. Kindly asking for blood donors for Mary Njambi Koikai," Njambi wrote.
Jahmby has battled endometriosis since she was age 13.
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Endometriosis is a painful disorder where tissue similar to the lining inside the uterus grows outside the uterus, causing severe pain and complications.
Her condition worsened in 2015 when she experienced a series of pneumothoraces (collapsed lungs) caused by thoracic endometriosis, a rare manifestation of the disease.
This led to numerous surgeries and prolonged hospital stays. The medical treatments available in Kenya were insufficient, prompting Koikai to seek specialized care abroad.
Jahmby battle with endometriosis transformed her into a fierce advocate for women's health.
She courageously shared her journey on social media, detailing her struggles, treatments, and the emotional toll of living with a chronic illness.
In 2017, Koikai launched a crowdfunding campaign to raise funds for her treatment in the United States.
The overwhelming support from friends, fans, and well-wishers enabled her to undergo multiple surgeries and receive the care she desperately needed.
Throughout her treatment, Koikai raised awareness about endometriosis, emphasizing the importance of early diagnosis, proper medical care, and the need for greater research and resources.
