fbpx

A new, bright future: Fozia’s story

Advanced Stage Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP) is one of the most common gynaecological issues in Ethiopia.

Like obstetric fistula, it has devastating physical and psychological impacts on women.

“I was living with prolapse for around eight years. I can’t do my daily work and can’t walk and stand for long periods of time. Because of that I isolate myself from different social activities.” – Fozia

Fozia suffered with a prolapse injury for eight years. Left untreated, her initial injury worsened resulting in Advanced Stage POP. Like many women living in remote areas, she had little access to medical care.

“I didn’t tell anyone because I thought it was only me who is suffering from this problem. Even if I want to go to a clinic, I don’t have money. So I kept quiet and suffered alone until the health extension worker come to my house and tell me about you [Project Zero team].”

Fozia was referred to Hamlin’s Metu Fistula Hospital where a specialist surgeon with urogynaecology skills performed surgery to repair her Advanced Stage POP.

“When I arrived, I knew it was not only me who is suffering. I want to thank all of you so much. You brightened our lives.” – Fozia

More News


  • Happy 100th Birthday, Catherine!

    Our entire global Hamlin family acknowledged Dr Catherine Hamlin’s 100th birthday on On 24 January 2024. ...

  • Giving birth in safe hands

    Kedida is one of the lucky ones. Pregnant with her first child, and recognising the signs of labour, she made her way by public transport to the Watar Hamlin-midwifery clinic. Gadissie, a newly graduated Hamlin Midwife, was there to welcome her. Having completed practical placements in several rural clinics while studying for her BSc Midwifery […]...

  • fistula surgeon

    Dr Leta, fistula surgeon explains the importance of prevention

    Eight years ago, Dr Leta was a student in Gondar University when Dr Catherine Hamlin visited to inaugurate a fistula centre. Her words made a lasting impact on him. “During her speech, Dr Catherine said that to cease the suffering of obstetric fistula patients, you must put yourself in someone else’s shoes. Even then, she […]...

  • Give back this festive season

    As we approach the holiday season, we look forward to celebrating with our families and friends; sharing a festive meal together and reflecting on the blessings of the past year. But families elsewhere in the world do not have as much to be thankful for. When a woman in Ethiopia does not receive the medical […]...