‘Every haircut keeps my spirit alive’ – Sam Kitiki on how barbering helps him fight cancer
By Valerian Khakayi, January 24, 2026Popular barber Samuel Kilonzo, widely known as Sam Kitiki, has revealed that cutting hair is more than just a job.
Taking to his official Instagram account on Friday, January 23, 2026, Kitiki said that barbering is his passion, his therapy, and one of the reasons he continues to fight gastrointestinal stromal tumour (GIST) cancer.
Kitiki says, despite the physical pain and exhaustion that come with his illness, he still makes his way to the barber shop whenever his body allows, adding that standing behind the chair and doing what he loves gives him purpose and strength during his darkest moments.
“Cutting hair is more than just work to me—it’s my passion, my therapy, and one of the reasons I keep fighting,” he shared.
“Even as I battle cancer, stepping into the shop and doing what I love gives me purpose and strength. Every haircut keeps my mind busy, my spirit alive and reminds me that I’m still here, still standing.”
The barber explained that barbering helps him cope with the emotional and mental strain of cancer. Each client gives him something to look forward to, helping him push through the pain and long, difficult days.
Additionally, Sam says when customers book an appointment, they are doing much more than getting a haircut, noting that their visit helps him fight another day and keeps him motivated to keep going.
“When you book an appointment with me, you’re not just coming for a haircut—you’re helping me fight another day. You’re giving me something to look forward to, something that keeps me going through the pain and the tough days,” he added.
“I would truly appreciate your support, your presence, and your time. Please book that appointment and help me stay busy doing what I love most.”
As he continues his battle, Sam is appealing to the public to support him by booking appointments and standing with him during this challenging journey. For him, every haircut is not just work — it is a reminder that he is not fighting alone.
Appeal
This comes after Sam appealed for help on Thursday, January 22, 2026, opening up about his health as he battles cancer.
“To anyone who reads this, I have truly given my all in this battle with GIST cancer. Even as the disease advances and the pain grows worse, I still try to show up to work whenever my body allows. What hurts deeply is seeing fewer and fewer clients each day. I give my very best, but sometimes it feels like it’s not enough,” he said.
“Barbering is my passion. It’s what gives me purpose and the strength to keep fighting. Every shilling I earn goes directly toward my treatment. To be honest, I am exhausted—physically, mentally, and emotionally—and there are moments when I feel like giving up and letting this disease take its course,
“If you can come in for a haircut, it would truly mean the world to me. If you’re able to support me financially via 0724590868, you will be giving me a fighting chance. This journey is not easy, and I can only do so much alone. Any amount, no matter how small, is deeply appreciated. Thank you for standing with me,” he added.