Aberash comes from Gobiye, a remote mountainous village in the Amhara region of Ethiopia. This is her story.
“I didn’t attend school, as no one was willing to send me. In my village, marrying was considered the right choice for girls. I married at the age of 18 and had my first child at 20, followed by two more.”
During her fourth pregnancy, confusion about her due date meant she ended up in labour at home for several days. When she finally arrived at the local health centre, the staff were not experienced enough to manage the obstructed delivery.
Aberash was referred to hospital for a caesarean section. Sadly her baby was stillborn leaving her heartbroken and grieving. The obstructed labour had caused her to develop an obstetric fistula, adding to her physical and emotional pain.
“I cried often, feeling isolated and alone in my suffering. I felt embarrassed and ashamed, and I began to hate my life, wondering how I would ever heal from this experience. It was a dark time, filled with despair and uncertainty about the future.”
A relative from Addis Ababa told Aberash about Hamlin Fistula hospital and brought her for a consultation. For the first time, she was reassured that treatment was possible.
“When I arrived here, I felt at home. Everything was provided for me. I once thought I was the only one with this urinary issue, and sometimes I would wonder, ‘Who cursed me with this problem?’ However, I soon realised there are many women just like me.
“The staff here feels like family. They care for all the patients, making me feel truly at home. I want to thank each of them. They all have beautiful hearts.”
Thanks to supporters like you, Aberash had fistula surgery free of charge at Addis Ababa Fistula Hospital. During her recovery, she trained in handicrafts and learned how to write. She is going home to her family and looking ahead to a brighter future.
Help women like Aberash
The care we provide means women like Aberash can return home with hope for the future. Your support means we can continue to provide that care.
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