IDA: A threat to women Empowerment Simbisai's Story

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I started being tired all the time, I could wake up in the morning and I wondered why am I already tired when I had a good night's sleep

Simbisai during & after IDA 
Have you ever experienced waking up one day and realizing that the vibrant, lively, and sociable version of yourself is no longer present? It's as if the spark that once fueled your energy and enthusiasm for life has vanished. This was precisely the case for Simbisai. One day, she was theepitome of the best version of herself, radiating positivity and eagerness to take on the world. Within some time, however, she could barely muster the strength to show up for herself. Simbisai is a vibrant and enthusiastic mother of three, known for her outgoing and engaging personality. However, despite her vivacious nature, she has not been spared from the debilitating condition of iron deficiency anaemia (IDA). Simbisai's story is a poignant reminder of how easily this condition can go undetected and untreated, with potentially serious consequences for those affected. Below is an interview we had with Simbisai.

When did you find out about your iron deficiency anaemia?

Five years ago, my journey of iron deficiency began with mild symptoms such as fatigue and low energy levels. As time passed, the symptoms became more severe, leaving me too tired to perform even simple household chores or go out with others. No matter how well I slept at night, I would wake up exhausted. The condition worsened to the point that my children had to take care of the household chores while I slept on the couch. My fatigue was particularly debilitating during my menstrual cycle, which made it even more difficult to cope with my symptoms. Despite the severity of my symptoms, I never bothered to seek medical attention until one day when we went to town as a family, and I was too weak to leave the car. I thought I had the flu, so I went to see a doctor who performed blood tests that revealed severe anaemia due to my very low iron levels.

Did the limitations impact your mental health if so how?

The exhaustion took a toll on my mental health. It was a stark contrast to my previous self - a vibrant and social person, always brimming with energy. Suddenly, everything changed. I could no longer keep up with my usual activities, let alone engage in new ones. The worst part was knowing that people were no longer enthusiastic about spending time with me because they knew I was always tired. This realization deeply affected me, and I struggled to cope with the mental and emotional turmoil that followed. In addition, my inability to carry out daily tasks and responsibilities left me feeling helpless and dependent on my children, which only worsened my distress.

How did you increase your iron status?

After being diagnosed with severe anaemia, I tried iron tablets and other medications prescribed by the doctor but didn't see much progress. I then researched multivitamins and iron-rich foods, but my improvement was still slow. Frustrated, I decided to undergo a blood transfusion. However, before doing it, I met a lady who recommended that I boil avocado leaves as they are helpful. I tried boiling and drinking the water. Surprisingly, my energy levels improved within a week, and my iron levels increased. The avocado water was the game-changer for me, and now I can do everything I couldn't do before.

Considering the current drought and economic conditions, what can adolescent girls and young women do to increase or maintain their iron levels?

Many times people think that medication is the only way they can increase their iron status and mostly neglect the readily available remedies like herbs and other locally available foods. For example, in my case, avocado leaves became the game changer which is something that is almost free to many people. Therefore, I encourage people to use natural remedies, iron-rich foods, and other stuff that they have available around them. My final words would be, 

‘My sister please use anything you have at your disposal and ensure that you address this iron deficiency before it claims your joy and energy.’


If you want to also share your iron deficiency anaemia lived experience please do reach out to us on our social media platforms on the link below. 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WholeWomanMovement1/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/whole-woman-movement/?viewAsMember=true

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