Change the life of another woman like Emnet

Emnet’s injuries were so severe that her life hung in the balance. 

Falling into a coma, she was transported on a makeshift stretcher through the rain to a government hospital in Addis Ababa. From there, she was referred to Hamlin’s Hospital, renowned for its specialised fistula treatment and care. However, upon arrival, Emnet’s condition was too precarious for immediate surgery.

In addition to her physical pain, Emnet endured the emotional anguish of losing her stillborn baby and the humiliation of uncontrollable urine leakage. Emnet realised she could not move her legs.

She told us: “My legs felt weak and unmoving. I was not able to move freely. I couldn’t sit if I want to. I used to be a neglected woman.” 

For five months, Emnet stayed at the hospital, receiving intensive physiotherapy, emotional support and nutritious meals. It was only after regaining movement in her legs and strengthening her body that she was deemed fit for the critical fistula repair surgery.

Dr Catherine Hamlin was an inspirational humanitarian. Affectionately known as Emaye - or Mother in Amharic. She cared deeply for every woman suffering the horrific effects of obstetric fistula. 

When she and her husband Reg first arrived in Ethiopia in 1959, they were shocked to see so many women suffering in agony and shame with fistula. 

Equally as devastating as their horrific physical injuries, were the emotional and psychological effects of this cruel condition. Humiliated, ostracised by their communities and families and left to survive alone without an income, for most women it was a fate worse than death. 

Over 65 years, Hamlin Fistula Ethiopia has transformed the lives of over 70,000 women through the Hamlin Model of Care. Catherine’s pioneering approach remains central to the organisation, addressing every aspect of a woman’s healing journey.

Despite this progress, an estimated 31,000 women still suffer from untreated fistula, with around 1,000 new cases each year.

Emnet’s story embodies the Hamlin Model of Care, a holistic approach that encompasses physical, psychological, and emotional healing. Catherine’s philosophy was clear: “We don’t just treat a hole in the bladder, we treat the whole patient with love and tender care.” 

When a patient arrives at a Hamlin Fistula Hospital, she receives a Comfort Package, symbolizing the start of her healing journey. Included is a beautiful Hamlin blanket, hygiene items, a clean new nightgown, slippers and a lovely homecoming dress. 

In addition to surgery, every woman receives a tailored program which includes counselling, physiotherapy, nutrition, numeracy and literacy skills and vocational and life skills training. When she returns to her community, she is empowered with health, dignity, confidence and the ability to earn an income.