The family, friends, and church community of renowned Seventh-day Adventist gospel singer Mary Claire have launched an urgent nationwide appeal to raise KSh 5 million for specialised reconstructive surgery in India, months after the singer’s life was shattered by a brutal acid attack that left her with severe facial injuries and threatened her eyesight.
The fundraising campaign, dubbed the “Just For Claire Initiative,” was officially unveiled on Wednesday, July 28, 2026, as loved ones intensified efforts to secure the advanced medical treatment doctors say she urgently needs to rebuild her life.
According to Redemption Ministers Kenya, the choir group closely associated with Mary Claire, the gifted singer suffered devastating burns to her face and eyes after she was allegedly attacked by a man believed to have been hired by her estranged boyfriend, Elvis Opiyo. The shocking incident sparked outrage across the country and renewed calls for justice for victims of gender-based violence.
The church group revealed that the attack left Mary Claire with extensive injuries that have dramatically changed her life. Medical reports indicate she is battling severe eye damage, progressive keloid scarring, painful contractures, nerve entrapment, chronic wound infections, facial disfigurement, and extensive fibrosis.
Despite months of treatment, her recovery remains a long and difficult journey. Doctors have already performed surgery on one of her eyes, successfully restoring part of her vision. However, the other eye remains critically affected, with specialists recommending complex reconstructive and plastic surgery in India to preserve her remaining sight, reduce chronic pain, and improve her quality of life.
Her family says the cost of the specialised treatment is far beyond their financial ability, prompting them to seek support from well-wishers across Kenya and beyond.
While speaking about her condition, Mary Claire’s sister disclosed that the singer’s treatment at Kenyatta National Hospital was partly covered by the Social Health Authority (SHA), allowing her to be discharged. However, she continues to return to the hospital every two weeks for medical reviews as doctors closely monitor her progress.
The family also expressed disappointment after claiming that former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko, who had previously visited Mary Claire in hospital and publicly pledged to support her recovery, has since become unreachable despite repeated attempts to contact him for assistance.
Mary Claire’s heartbreaking story first captured national attention in March 2026, when she was reportedly attacked with acid along Ngong Road before being rushed to hospital in critical condition. The shocking assault triggered widespread condemnation, with many Kenyans demanding swift investigations and justice. Police later arrested a suspect as investigations into the disturbing case continued.
Today, although Mary Claire has survived the horrific attack, her greatest battle is now rebuilding her health and reclaiming her future. Her family, church members, and friends remain hopeful that compassionate Kenyans will rally behind the fundraising campaign and help give the talented gospel singer a second chance at life.
Comments from Kenyans
- Grace A.: “No one deserves to go through such pain. May God heal Mary Claire completely.”
- Peter O.: “I pray she gets the treatment she needs. Let’s support her however we can.”
- Faith N.: “This story is heartbreaking. Wishing her strength and a full recovery.”
- James M.: “Justice must be served, and I hope kind-hearted Kenyans will stand with her.”
- Mercy W.: “May God restore her health and give her family hope during this difficult season.”
