Speaking about her experience, Churie said that living with one kidney is possible as long as one maintains a healthy lifestyle and goes for regular medical check-ups.
She admitted that while there may be small health risks, such as mild high blood pressure or protein in the urine, most people with a single kidney live normal lives.
Her journey began in the mid-1980s when her son, Victor Tobiko, started developing health complications shortly after joining high school.
“At first, I thought it was because of the heavy books he carried to school,” Churie recalled.
But as the symptoms worsened, the family decided to seek medical help.
After months of hospital visits without a clear diagnosis, Tobiko’s health deteriorated further, forcing the family to seek specialized treatment.
Doctors later discovered that one of his kidneys had been severely damaged, possibly due to a streptococcal infection from untreated sore throats during childhood.
This revelation shocked the family, but it also set the stage for a life-changing decision.
By 1989, Tobiko’s condition had worsened, and doctors recommended a kidney transplant.
Without hesitation, Felicita offered one of her kidneys, despite being warned of the risks involved. The transplant was successful, and Tobiko went on to live with his mother’s kidney for more than 26 years.
Sadly, in 2016, Tobiko’s health suddenly declined, and he passed away at Aga Khan Hospital despite efforts by doctors to save him.
While his death was a painful moment, Felicita said she does not regret her decision.
“I gave my son a chance to live, study, and enjoy life for many years. That is something I will always treasure,” she said.
Churie now encourages Kenyans not to fear organ donation but to see it as an act of love and humanity.
She also advises parents to take sore throats in children seriously, warning that untreated infections can lead to life-threatening complications.
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