Naomi Korir's athletic journey reached a significant milestone in August when she finished fifth in the mile final at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. However, her path to success was fraught with challenges due to a congenital condition called fistula, which led to uncontrollable urine leakage.

Growing up, Korir participated in various sports, including football, netball, and rugby, but her condition forced her to limit her running distance to manage the symptoms. She explained, "I reduced my running to shorter distances to reduce the leaking. I began doing 100m hurdles."

Despite these hurdles, sport became a refuge for Korir, helping her combat feelings of exclusion. The Doctors Without Borders estimates that around 500,000 women globally live with fistula, a condition that remains prevalent in sub-Saharan Africa due to limited access to quality medical care.

Korir's journey involved multiple surgeries, with her third operation in August 2013 finally alleviating her symptoms. The procedure was conducted at Gynocare Hospital in her hometown of Eldoret, which specializes in treating fistula.

Caroline Mabeya, director of Gynocare, emphasized the psychological toll of fistula, stating, "They are ostracised in society. That's the psychological torture that they face."

Gynocare not only provides surgical treatment but also supports women through post-operative programs to rebuild their confidence. Korir benefited from the Young Fistula Programme, continuing her education after surgery.

In 2019, she turned professional, and by 2021, she won a silver medal in the 2x2x400m mixed relay at the World Relays in Poland. The following year, she earned gold as part of Kenya's 4x400m relay team at the African Championships in Mauritius.

Reflecting on her achievements, Korir stated, "I'm giving hope to young women maybe who have lost hope. They need to come back again in living and enjoying life."

Mabeya noted Korir's inspiring transformation as a beacon of hope for women currently supported by Gynocare, reinforcing the message that overcoming struggles is possible. As Korir looks ahead to the World Championships in Beijing and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, she remains committed to her dual identity as a champion in life and sport.