Debritu is from a remote village far from the city in the Wollega region of Oromia. After three agonising days in obstructed labour with nobody to help her, Debritu finally sought help at a local health centre. She received no support but was referred to a local hospital.
It was too late. Debritu’s baby was stillborn and she sustained a devastating obstetric fistula which left her incontinent.
“I was overwhelmed by shame and felt alone. The condition caused uncontrollable leaking and I experienced stigma from friends and family due to the smell.” – Debritu
Debritu suffered in grief and isolation for years before she learnt about the compassionate treatment and care available for women like her at Hamlin’s Addis Ababa Fistula Hospital.
Welcomed with love
When she arrived, Debritu was warmly welcomed with the gift of a Comfort Package which includes:
- a beautiful hand-knitted Hamlin blanket to mark the start of her healing journey
- hygiene items for her hospital stay
- a new nightgown and slippers
- a new homecoming dress.
Debritu’s healing continued with fistula repair surgery, loving care and rehabilitation to restore her dignity and confidence.
Finally a cure for Debritu
Debritu suffered in grief and isolation for years before she learnt about the compassionate treatment and care available for women like her at Hamlin’s Addis Ababa Fistula Hospital.
When she arrived she was given a Comfort Package, including items for her hospital stay and a beautiful Hamlin blanket to mark the start of her healing journey. It continued with fistula repair surgery and loving care to restore her dignity and confidence.
“I travelled to the [Addis Ababa] hospital. The staff’s warmth and kindness provided hope. I am now cured and I am holding my child in my arms. It feels like a miracle.” – Debritu
A little miracle
Debritu later discovered she was pregnant again and returned to the hospital where Dr Tigist Tesfa performed the safe caesarean delivery of her baby.
“I travelled to the [Addis Ababa] hospital. The staff’s warmth and kindness provided hope. I am now cured and I am holding my child in my arms. It feels like a miracle.” – Debritu
Debritu’s child symbolises her resilience. She is deeply grateful to Dr Tigist and the Hamlin hospital staff who have transformed her life.
Your support helps Hamlin Fistula Ethiopia find and heal more women like Debritu, who are treated free of charge thanks to you.
