The symbolism of the iconic Hamlin blanket

Likelesh has called the hospital by the river her home for decades. Having suffered a devastating obstetric fistula injury when she was younger, she arrived at Hamlin’s Addis Ababa Fistula Hospital seeking treatment. But the love and support she found there completely changed the trajectory of her life.

Born and raised in a rural village in North Shewa in the Amhara Region of Ethiopia, Likelesh experienced three days of agonising labour only to find that her baby had died in her womb and she had sustained an obstetric fistula.

Because of the remoteness, there was no transport available to take Likelesh to a hospital and she became seriously ill. She eventually arrived at Hamlin’s fistula hospital in Addis Ababa for free fistula repair surgery. She told us:

“When I arrived here, Abaye (Dr. Reg Hamlin, ‘father’) welcomed me and Emaye (Dr. Catherine Hamlin, ‘mother’) was there to support me. Abaye told me that I would be treated well and that I would be like a daughter to them. Emaye echoed those sentiments. It is hard for me to say that my biological parents raised me; rather, it was Abaye and Emaye who nurtured me. I began my life here with them and they became my mother and father.”

Feeling at home at the Addis Ababa Fistula Hospital

Likelesh remained at the fistula hospital after her recovery and Reg and Catherine taught her the workings of the hospital, always reassuring her and saying everything would be okay.

As Likelesh grew older, she began working at the hospital with five other former obstetric fistula patients. They were involved in every aspect of its operation; caring for patients, cleaning the wards, serving food and welcoming patients in the outpatient department and the wards. When Reg and later, Catherine passed away, Likelesh continued to live at the hospital with her friends.

Likelesh now works in the blanket store at the Addis Ababa Fistula Hospital, managing the stock and distribution of the iconic Hamlin handmade blankets to all six Hamlin fistula hospitals.

Every woman arriving at a Hamlin fistula hospital for life-changing surgery receives a beautiful crocheted handmade blanket, lovingly made by a volunteer, as part of her Comfort Package, to mark the start of her healing journey.

A Comfort Package also includes hygiene items so a woman can keep herself fresh and clean, a new nightgown and slippers and a lovely homecoming dress for her to return home in.

The deep significance of Hamlin blankets

Likelesh understands the deep significance that these custom blankets hold for every woman. She told us:
“When we give these blankets to our patients, it brings significant meaning to their lives. The joy on the patients’ faces when they wrap themselves in these blankets is heartwarming. Many patients dislike seeing their clothes soiled with urine, so these blankets are incredibly important to them.

Many choose to discard their old clothes and wear the blankets instead. Some even use them while they sleep. They love the warmth and comfort these blankets provide. When they return to their families, their relatives frequently ask where they got the blankets and this brings further delight to the patients. They wear the blankets with pride.

For the patients, these handmade blankets symbolise their journey of healing. They are not just items; they embody their recovery, bringing them joy and a sense of comfort. The connection they feel to the blankets is profound, as they associate them with their healing experience. This strong emotional bond makes the blankets truly special for each patient.”

Click here to buy a Comfort Package.