Gospel musician Betty Bayo, full name Beatrice Mbugua, died on November 10 from leukemia after secretly battling the illness. She hid her pain behind her famous wide smile to avoid online ridicule. Close friend Shiro wa GP recounted the painful story of her final weeks.
Betty Bayo was known for her uplifting songs and loving personality. Symptoms of the illness began in mid-October when she appeared extremely fatigued and lacking energy. On October 18, she told her friend Mary Wanjiru, known as Shiro wa GP, that she felt unwell. They went to RFH Hospital, where doctors found low blood levels and excessive bleeding. Initially thought to be menstrual, the dizziness raised concerns.
She was admitted for five days and given blood transfusions. On the second day, tests confirmed leukemia. The family was advised to take her to Aga Khan Hospital, and her husband Hiram Gitau (Tosh) arranged travel to the US for treatment. Betty denied the severity. On October 27, her condition worsened, and she returned to RFH. Friends created a WhatsApp group of about 30 people for support.
Each transfusion gave her temporary strength, and she wanted to go home. Shiro called Hiram to return. On November 3, she was admitted to AAR Hospital. After two days, she suffered a stroke from internal bleeding, losing her speech, though doctors managed it. She was advised to transfer to Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) in the private ward.
Betty insisted on secrecy; she did not want photos or online fundraisers. “She asked us not to post her pictures or start online fundraisers,” Shiro said. Before KNH, she saw her two children and cried without speaking. She sang her favorite song '11th Hour' on her last day before losing her voice.
Her body rejected new blood, signaling the end stage. On the morning of her death, psychologists prepared her children. She passed away on Monday, November 10, leaving two children and a legacy in gospel music. Funeral preparations continue; artists and friends meet daily from noon at Bluesprings Hotel and her home in EdenVille Estate on Kiambu Road.