A message from Carolyn Hardy; Chief Executive Officer, Catherine Hamlin Fistula Foundation
Growing stronger, together. COVID-19 has changed how we live and work and it has shown us the loss that can be caused by a virus that we cannot cure.
Yet just as tragically, out of the public spotlight, is the plight of millions of people across the world who suffer from diseases and medical conditions that we can treat and cure.
So when there is evidence that one of the world’s poorest countries is on the cusp of eradicating a crippling medical condition, it should demand our attention and support. And when we understand this effort stems from 60 years of work at Hamlin Fistula Ethiopia – it should make us doubly proud and determined to see it ultimately succeed.
Our mission to eradicate obstetric fistula from Ethiopia by 2030 took another step forward this year with Hamlin Fistula Ethiopia’s new Patient Identification Program which launched in February. In spite of COVID-19 it’s already had good results.
Eradication by 2030 is a daunting task and the COVID-19 pandemic has brought new challenges. But the team at Hamlin Fistula Ethiopia will not stop until every last woman suffering a fistula injury has been located and treated under the Hamlin Model of Care which ensures clinical excellence, compassion and dignity.
Hamlin’s incredible medical professionals have also become part of the frontline against the pandemic and they are working to minimise interruptions for Ethiopian women in need of maternity services.
Hamlin Fistula Ethiopia has come so far in combating this terrible, treatable condition. It is our deepest desire that we do all we can to eradicate fistula from Ethiopia. Forever.
Warmest thanks to each and every one of you who have supported Hamlin Fistula Ethiopia this year.
