For Creative Girls

Dealing with Grief & Pain: Annette Kariuki Shares Her Experience

Pain can be compared to a wound that cannot heal. It keeps pestering you every now and then. There are times when one feels so low that you can barely do anything. This pain can also lead to depression and suicidal attempts if it fails to be discovered early. It hurts a lot when it turns out to be a loved one whom you treasure dearly.

We all react differently towards pain. Some people let it all out; while others conceal their feelings. The joy is when you share it with someone. It helps ease your burdens within you. As the Bible states, ‘Cast your burdens unto Jesus for he cares for you. Personally, sharing it with someone is the way to go. If it seems impossible, you can seek help from family. They are the biggest support system of your life. Remember sharing is caring. Below, is a story I would like to share with the rest of the world.

It occurred some years back. My auntie`s diagnosis had been hidden from the rest of the family members for some time now. It was discovered so late. Doctor`s appointments were scheduled as soon as we discovered. The doctors had urged us to be fast since she was in the predominant stage; Stage IV Cancer.
It was heart-breaking to see her pale and being assisted in most of the tasks. She was the most hardworking auntie at our family gatherings. Her food was always the best compared to the rest. Every family member adored her. This is due to the fact that she made people feel at home during Christmas. It was super awesome.

Once the news broke of her demise, we were all shocked. It happened so quickly and it was a really big blow on every one us. The first people to arrive at the hospital were shocked to find her lifeless body lying in the hospital bed. There were screams all over within the hospital as the staff hastily took her body to another room. Till to date, her gap is still noticeable.

In conclusion, I learned during that painful period to take one step at a time. Fate is something that you can neither contemplate nor explain. It strikes when you least expect it. Then, everything happens for a purpose – this bit is usually hard to accept; since most of the time, we fault God for taking away our loved ones. Let us remember that God has greater things for us; despite the sudden setbacks we undergo in life. RIP auntie.


Follow this piece up with this interview on Interpreting your Emotions & Struggles Through Art, a deep conversation we had with Indian Illustrator, Rukmini Poddar.

Also, read about how Awazi Angbalaga, OAP at Soundcity is combating Body Shaming & fighting for Body Positivity in Girls.


Annette Wangechi Kariuki is a student and online writer, studying Mass Communication at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology.