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Iya Isanga Bekondo

On Wednesday, July 10, 2024, we lost our cherished Iya Bekondo after a courageous 34-year battle with kidney disease. Diagnosed at just 7 years old, Iya’s resilience shone through years of dialysis and 2 renal transplant surgeries. She received her first kidney transplant from her loving mother, Mummy Rose Bekondo, which sustained her for 16 precious years.

After returning to dialysis in 2021, she was on the transplant list for 3 years, valiantly seeking another lease on life. On July 4th, 2024, Iya would go on to receive a second kidney transplant. Unfortunately, the joy and celebration was short-lived as Iya passed on less than 48 hours after being discharged from the hospital.
Iya was more than a survivor; she was a beacon of hope and kindness. Her tireless advocacy for kidney disease touched countless lives. Through her foundation, The Iya Foundation, she provided invaluable support to those affected by this condition, especially in low-income communities in Cameroon and the USA. In 2019, she established one of the first ever Kidney Resource Centers in Africa.

Her life’s work and achievements, detailed in https://theiyafoundation.org stand as a testament to her selflessness and dedication.

In Loving Memory 

Now, we face the overwhelming task of honoring Iya’s legacy by fulfilling her final journey. We need your support to transport her back to her heartbroken mother in Cameroon and to cover the costs of her funeral and burial. Mummy Rose, whom Iya lovingly called “fairlady,” is devastated by this loss. Bringing Iya home to her mother is the greatest gift we can give in this moment of profound grief.

Your donation, no matter the size, will help cover the repatriation and funeral expenses. Any remaining funds will continue to support The Iya Foundation, ensuring that her legacy of compassion lives on.

Thank you for your kindness and generosity during this difficult time.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Family and Friends of Iya Isanga Bekondo

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Educational Journey

Iya Bekondo began her educational journey at her primary school PNEU BOTA following her secondary school at GHS Limbe in Cameroon. She then pursued a degree in Biotechnology at Kean University. Her academics continued at the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT), where she studied Business Management and Information Systems, as well as Pharmaceutical Systems Management.

Professional Achievements

Iya's professional career is marked by significant contributions in various fields. She was the owner and kidney health coach at the Kidney Resource Center, where she dedicated herself to helping individuals manage their kidney health. As an Adjunct Professor at Kean University, she shared her knowledge and expertise with students. Iya also served as an Ambassador at the American Association of Kidney Patients and a Kidney Health Educator at the American Kidney Fund, advocating for kidney health and education. Earlier in her career, she worked as a Marketing Business Analyst at Benecard Services, LLC, where she applied her business acumen to the healthcare industry.

Iya's commitment to kidney health extended beyond her professional roles. She founded The Iya Foundation, Inc., a New Jersey non-profit organization dedicated to chronic kidney disease education, awareness, and early detection in the U.S. African Immigrant community. The foundation aims to save lives by educating the public and raising awareness about chronic kidney disease, as well as raising funds to benefit low-income uninsured End Stage Renal Disease patients. The foundation's mission is to fight kidney disease through education and awareness, encouraging early detection to delay or prevent complete renal failure. This impactful work has made a significant difference in the lives of many, as highlighted in an article by Cameroon News Agency about the foundation's efforts in Buea, Cameroon. Click here to view the article.

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