“Ethiopian women are actively involved in all aspects of their society’s life. Obstetric fistula not only disables the woman in so many ways, the entire village feels the effects. Women with obstetric fistula are outcast & therefore unproductive. Their family & community suffer.”
“Most hospitals (in Ethiopia) are in cities and far from the rural population. On average, the nearest health facility is two days walk away from their homes. The trek is often done alone. Many women will stuff their clothes with rags to prevent leakage caused by the fistula. All risk ridicule & humiliation on their journey to be cured.” (words taken from Hamlin Fistula Hospital site).
Once again, as Christmas time surrounds me, I think about the songs we sing of peace on earth & the story of Christmas that speaks of the gift of LoVE that came down to earth. I wish that the beautiful words of the carol, “peace on earth good will to all” would become a reality in another women’s life. My hope is to provide a fistula surgery for a women in Ethiopia.
Any print sales from Christmas gift card sessions & art pieces purchased until the end of January will go towards the cost of the surgery. A standard fistula surgery costs $600. Feel free to take a peek at the Addis Ababa Fistula Hospital website & the documentary A Walk To Beautiful which tells the story of five Ethiopian women who suffer devastating childbirth injuries & the journey they make to reclaim their dignity. You can view both here.
Thank-you for visiting me here. I would love to hear about the passions that have been placed in your heart too!
