Honor Iya Bekondo's Legacy: Support Her Final Journey Home

Family and Friends of Iya Bekondo is organizing this fundraiser on behalf of Prime Bekondo.

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Final Farewell for Our Beloved Kidney Warrior, Iya Bekondo-Granatella

On Wednesday, July 10, 2024, we lost our cherished Iya Bekondo after a courageous 34-year battle with kidney disease. Diagnosed at just 7 years old, Iya’s resilience shone through years of dialysis and 2 renal transplant surgeries. She received her first kidney transplant from her loving mother, Mummy Rose Bekondo, which sustained her for 16 precious years.

After returning to dialysis in 2021, she was on the transplant list for 3 years, valiantly seeking another lease on life. On July 4th, 2024, Iya would go on to receive a second kidney transplant. Unfortunately, the joy and celebration was short-lived as Iya passed on less than 48 hours after being discharged from the hospital.

Iya was more than a survivor; she was a beacon of hope and kindness. Her tireless advocacy for kidney disease touched countless lives. Through her foundation, The Iya Foundation, she provided invaluable support to those affected by this condition, especially in low-income communities in Cameroon and the USA. In 2019, she established one of the first ever Kidney Resource Centers in Africa.

Her life’s work and achievements, detailed in https://theiyafoundation.org stand as a testament to her selflessness and dedication.

Now, we face the overwhelming task of honoring Iya’s legacy by fulfilling her final journey. We need your support to transport her back to her heartbroken mother in Cameroon and to cover the costs of her funeral and burial. Mummy Rose, whom Iya lovingly called “fairlady,” is devastated by this loss. Bringing Iya home to her mother is the greatest gift we can give in this moment of profound grief.

Your donation, no matter the size, will help cover the repatriation and funeral expenses. Any remaining funds will continue to support The Iya Foundation, ensuring that her legacy of compassion lives on.

Thank you for your kindness and generosity during this difficult time.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Family and Friends of Iya Isanga Bekondo-Granatella