Kenyan songstress Marya, famed for her chart-topping hit Chokoza, has shared a deeply emotional update about her ongoing struggles — revealing that she is battling financial hardship, depression, and the pain of being unable to provide for her children.
Life After a Stroke
Earlier this year, the mother of two suffered an ischaemic stroke that left one side of her face paralysed.
Recalling the frightening incident, Marya said she was holding her son when he slipped from her arms. As she tried to catch him, she collapsed and lost consciousness.
Her nanny, alarmed by the sound, rushed into the room and found both Marya and her child on the floor. Family members were called immediately, and the singer was rushed to hospital, where doctors confirmed she had suffered a stroke.
“One side of my body had gone completely numb — I knew something was terribly wrong,” she recalled.
Months later, Marya continues to attend costly physiotherapy sessions, which she admits have strained her finances. She previously appealed to Kenyans for assistance to help offset her mounting medical bills.
A Painful Birthday Reflection
Despite her challenges, Marya recently marked her birthday with a heartfelt Instagram post that moved her fans to tears.
“Fighting for my life, being auctioned and losing everything, but I’m still thankful for another year. Happy birthday to me,” she wrote in her Instagram Stories.
On her main page, she added:
“It’s not been easy — not being able to provide for my kids, being auctioned, losing hope, depressed… but happy birthday to me.”
Her posts drew an outpouring of support from fans and fellow celebrities. Beauty entrepreneur Phoina encouraged her to stay strong, writing, “Happy birthday gal, never give up.” Another supporter commented, “Better days are coming — God will do it.”
Career Setbacks and Financial Struggles
Marya’s music career took a downturn after her contract with Ogopa DJs ended. Despite attempts to continue recording independently, the high cost of studio sessions forced her to take a break.
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“I’m on a music break because it’s not been easy,” she said in a past interview with Mungai Eve. “Studios are expensive, and I can’t afford the recording fees.”
Her rise to fame began after Colonel Mustapha introduced her to Ogopa DJs, leading to the release of their hit Hey Baby. But after five years, her contract wasn’t renewed — leaving her to navigate the tough industry on her own.
Lessons from Fame and Hardship
Reflecting on her journey, Marya admitted that fame came too early and that financial mismanagement cost her dearly.
“I became famous and got money at a very young age. I didn’t have anyone to guide me on saving or investing. Before I knew it, I was broke — I was only 22,” she confessed.
Now, despite battling health and financial setbacks, the singer remains hopeful.
“I’ve lost a lot, but I haven’t lost faith,” she said. “I’m still fighting — for my health, my children, and my future.”
Marya’s story has since touched thousands online, serving as both a sobering reminder of the fragility of fame and a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.
