Liberia Ebola survivors advocate for healthcare and support

A decade after the deadly Ebola outbreak in Liberia, survivors are sharing their stories of loss and hope. The outbreak claimed over 11,300 lives, leaving many individuals with lasting physical and emotional scars. Josephine Karwah, who lost her family to the virus, now runs a small clinic in Monrovia. She leads a support group called All Survivors on WhatsApp, where members share their experiences and challenges. Many continue to deal with health issues, including joint pain and vision problems. Liberia, once one of Africa's richest countries, has faced ongoing struggles. The nation has never been under a colonial regime, yet it has endured civil wars and widespread corruption. Today, it ranks 145th on Transparency International's corruption index and remains one of the world's poorest nations. Food insecurity is common due to extreme poverty. Ebola was first identified in 1976. The most violent outbreak began in 2013 and spread quickly through Liberia and Sierra Leone. With insufficient healthcare infrastructure, many suffered. The World Health Organization declared the outbreak over in June 2016, but the social stigma surrounding survivors remains. Survivors like Zaizay Mulbah and Musu Kennedy have dedicated their lives to helping others. They emphasize the importance of support networks and share their emotional challenges. Kennedy remembers a young girl she cared for, stating, "If you find her, tell her that I miss her." Other survivors express their desire for better healthcare and community support. Comfort Paye suffers from ongoing pain and discrimination, while Beatrice Yardolo, who was the last patient treated during the outbreak, describes a difficult return to life after her recovery. Despite their struggles, many survivors find strength in their faith and communities. Tony Henry dreams of creating a memorial for those lost to Ebola, highlighting the need for continued support and awareness. The resilience among these individuals serves as a powerful reminder of the human capacity for hope in the face of adversity.