“How the Late Actress Winnie Bwire, Known as Dida, Discovered She Had Cancer”

Actress Winnie Bwire’s passing was announced by her family on September 5, 2024. She was receiving treatment in Turkey when she succumbed to her illness.

The family expressed their sorrow in a statement released by media personality Lulu Hassan.

“It is with a heavy heart and humble acceptance of God’s will that we announce Winfred Bwire Ndubi lost her battle with cancer on 5th September 2024 while undergoing treatment in Turkey.

“We are deeply grateful for the overwhelming support, prayers, and generosity shown during her treatment. Further details will be shared in due course. God bless you all,” the statement read.

Winnie Bwire was actively involved in raising awareness about breast cancer and even established a foundation for it.

Here is how she discovered her illness.

Bwire was diagnosed with Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS), a type of cancer that affects the milk ducts in the breast.

She initially noticed persistent swelling in her armpits and was prescribed medication for swollen lymph nodes.

The pain would subside after her menstrual cycle ended.

“After three months, my periods would come and go, accompanied by the pain, but during the third month, the pain in my armpits lingered even after my period had ended,” she once shared.

A visit to a gynecologist led to a recommendation for further screening.

“Following a biopsy, I was diagnosed with ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), a rare form of cancer involving abnormal cells in a milk duct in the breast,” she revealed in an earlier interview.

She then embarked on her treatment journey.

Bwire underwent eight rounds of chemotherapy, which caused severe side effects, including memory loss, hair loss, and night blindness.

In August of this year, she spoke with Lynn Ngugi about the financial burden of her treatment.

“When NHIF couldn’t cover the expenses, my family stepped in because the current stage I am in requires targeted therapy.

“It is a crime to be sick in this country; the cost of medication is exorbitant,” she remarked.

“Every 21 days, I need one hundred thousand shillings. I take tablets that have helped me through the treatments, and the top-ups have been manageable.”

Tragically, she lost her battle with cancer. May her soul rest in peace.