The Hamlin Model of Care for treatment of obstetric fistula injuries considers both the physical impact and psychological trauma of this childbirth injury. As well as treating injuries, Catherine Hamlin Fistula Foundation empowers women and girls, and helps sustain their well-being. The Hamlin College of Midwives in Ethiopia was established to increase the number of qualified birth attendants in rural areas, helping prevent obstetric fistulas from occurring in the first place.
Women with obstetric fistulas have suffered great trauma, but this does not need to be the end of their stories. Catherine Hamlin Fistula Foundation has the knowledge and skills to help them recover. We simply need the collective action and means to make this vision a reality. Together, we can eradicate fistula. Forever.
Today, Hamlin Fistula Ethiopia is a healthcare network of over 550 Ethiopian staff servicing six hospitals, Desta Mender rehabilitation centre, the Hamlin College of Midwives and over 90 Hamlin-supported midwifery clinics. Hamlin is the reference organization and leader in the fight to eradicate obstetric fistula around the world, blazing a trail for holistic treatment and care that empowers women to reassert their humanity, secure their health and well-being, and regain their roles in their families and communities.
My wish is for my dream to come true, to eradicate obstetric fistula. Forever.
Dr Catherine Hamlin AC