Celebrity barber Sam Kitiki reveals he now collapses frequently as his stage 3 cancer advances
By Steve Ireri, July 2, 2026Celebrity barber Sam Kitiki has shared a heartbreaking update on his battle with gastrointestinal stromal tumour (GIST) cancer, revealing that his condition has deteriorated significantly and that he now experiences frequent collapses that have made it increasingly difficult for him to work.
In a statement shared on TikTok on Thursday, July 2, 2026, Kitiki disclosed that the illness has taken a heavy toll on his health, forcing him to scale back his work at the barbershop that has been his primary source of income.
According to the barber, the business is no longer generating enough money to cover his medical treatment and day-to-day needs, leaving him with no option but to once again appeal for help from well-wishers.
“Things are getting worse. My battle with GIST cancer has become increasingly difficult. My health has deteriorated significantly, and frequent collapses have made it hard for me to continue working as I once did,” he wrote.
Kitiki explained that despite making every effort to keep the business running and encouraging customers to continue supporting the shop, the challenges have only continued to grow.
“Unfortunately, my barbershop is no longer generating enough income to support my treatment and daily needs. I have tried my best to keep going and to encourage people to support the business, but the challenges have continued to grow,” he added.
He also appealed for financial contributions, saying any amount would go a long way in helping him continue receiving medical care.
“I am sharing this message with humility and hope. If you are in a position to visit and support my barbershop, it would mean a great deal to me. If you would like to support me financially, any contribution, no matter the amount, will be deeply appreciated and will help with my treatment and care,” he stated.
Kitiki then thanked everyone who has stood by him throughout his cancer journey, expressing hope that God would reward them for their kindness.
The initiative attracted widespread support, with hundreds of Kenyans turning up for fundraising events and haircuts in solidarity with the celebrity barber.
Before opening the shop, Kitiki had openly shared the emotional and financial burden of battling GIST cancer, revealing that every shilling he earned from barbering went towards paying for treatment.
He had admitted that the physical pain, emotional exhaustion and declining number of clients had left him contemplating giving up, but maintained that cutting hair remained his greatest source of strength.
The barber also won the admiration of many Kenyans after revealing that his long-term dream was to establish an inclusive barbershop where children living with disabilities and autism would receive free haircuts in a welcoming and supportive environment.