Why we mums adored Janet Kanini Ikua

 

Before, I roll my pen; first, I wish to pay my deepest condolences to the family of the late Janet Kanini Ikua. I wish Mr George and the two lovely babies God’s strength and comfort during this difficult time. Our feisty Janet may be gone, but she has left a lasting legacy that we mums will cherish forever. Looking at Janet’s life as she battled lung cancer, some virtues in her stood out that every mum can emulate.   Spirituality: Janet’s deep belief in God was admirable. In her daily struggles, joys and triumphs, Janet shared with the world her deep faith in God, a ritual which kept her going. As she battled the raging storm, she stood firm knowing whom she had put her hopes and trust in - the Most High. Every mummy needs that strong anchor. Passion: If there is one aspect that stood out so strongly in Janet, it was impossible to miss, it was her passion for life. From the way she spoke with zest, to the way she spoke about her children and her triumph over cancer, she oozed passion. Despite all the odds she was facing, Janet never lost her passion for life as a mother, a wife, a sister, a friend, a counselor and a role model for countless young people.  Humility: The so called celebrities have a certain superiority complex that hangs on their neck; they feel they are a gift to humanity. Though I never met Janet personally, she came across as that nice mum across the street that you are dying to say ‘hi’ to ever day. She came across as so reachable and easy to talk to, you could share with her any deep secret. Her interviews on TV were so personal, you felt like she was speaking directly you. For that humility, she won our hearts as mums. Courage: I have seen enough close relatives fighting cancer; I know for sure it is merciless, ruthless and unforgiving. Cancer is simply horrendous. It is like that cold hearted beast that is keen to finish you leaving you bitter, broken and ugly. But even with those merciless blows, Janet remained strong and calm. Even though she was weak in body and spirit, she made it her duty to keep updating Kenyans on her daily battles.   We all know she was already going through enough hell, but she still gathered courage to give current updates on her progress. Kenyans from all walks of life cherished these messages because they were like that oxygen you needed to overcome a personal struggle you were going through. When she was in India, I recall I was going through some turmoil, and when I saw her update on her amazing progress, I was like “Hey if Janet did it, so can I.” Her courage was inspiring.   Elegance: Cancer robes you of dignity it makes you feel worthless and unattractive, but our girl, managed to look so elegant despite the ugliness she was facing. That is simply beautiful. I could go on and on. Sleep well beautiful Kanini. The writer is a married working mother of a toddler boy and a preschooler daughter. She shares her day-today-life experience of juggling between career, family and social life