| Anarcha Westcott, a 17-year-old from Montgomery, Alabama, endured a harrowing labor. After more than 72 hours, her baby was delivered, but the prolonged, obstructed birth left her with two fistulas, causing her to leak urine and feces. Over the next five years, Anarcha underwent 30 surgeries. In 1849, she underwent her final surgery that successfully corrected her fistula. Her story represents the arduous journey of early fistula treatment. From those painful beginnings in 19th century America, fistula care has made remarkable strides. Today, thousands of miles away in rural Ethiopia, a powerful partnership is bringing healing to women facing similar challenges. Village Health Partnership, with its deep roots in community-based healthcare, provides essential support through its Screen, Transport, and Treat program. This program identifies women in need, arranges transportation to healthcare facilities, and ensures they receive the care they require for injuries from fistula and pelvic organ prolapse. |
| The Hamlin Fistula Hospital, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, was established over 65 years ago by Dr. Catherine and Dr. Reg Hamlin to eradicate obstetric fistula and has treated over 70,000 women with compassionate surgical care. The Hamlin Fistula Hospital’s extensive network includes six regional hospitals, the Hamlin College of Midwives, over 90 midwifery clinics, and a Rehabilitation and Reintegration Centre. This remarkable organization now joins the Village Health Partnership coalition, which also includes the EECMY DASSC, Aira General Hospital, Dembi Dollo Regional Hospital, the Fistula Foundation, and the Tropical Health Alliance Foundation (THAF). The THAF’s additional funding this year made this crucial partnership possible. While this collaboration is new, it is already transforming lives and yielding significant results:Increased Treatment Capacity: The partnership has enabled VHP to significantly increase its annual treatment of severe POP cases from 250 to 350 women and obstetric fistula cases from 25 to 35 women.Improved Access to Specialized Care: Complex cases, including those involving severe injuries or previous unsuccessful surgeries, now have access to Hamlin’s expertise and specialized facilities, ensuring they receive the best possible care.Enhanced Rehabilitation Services: Hamlin Fistula Hospital’s Village of Joy provides comprehensive rehabilitation services, including physical therapy, counseling, and vocational training, empowering women to rebuild their lives.The union between Village Health Partnership and The Hamlin Fistula Hospital exemplifies the power of collaboration to address critical health challenges in underserved communities. By combining their expertise and resources, they are transforming the lives of women affected by POP and obstetric fistula, restoring their dignity and improving their overall health and well-being. This partnership serves as a model for how organizations can work together to create a healthier and more equitable future for women in rural Ethiopia. Your generous donation can help provide life-changing care for women suffering from POP and obstetric fistula. Every contribution, no matter the size, makes a difference. To donate, please visit www.villagehealthpartnership.org/donate Together, we can ensure that no woman suffers in silence. |
