Eradicating Obstetric Fistula in Ethiopia

Lynne talked about the work of Catherine & Reg Hamlin. Catherine was voted Senior Citizen of NSW for 2017.   The title of the presentation was ‘The Catherine Hamlin Fistula Foundation’, which believes no woman should suffer the indignity of an obstetric fistula. What is an obstetric fistula?    One of the worst things that can happen to a woman or girl is an obstetric fistula, an internal injury caused by an obstructed labour during childbirth that leaves her incontinent, humiliated and often cut off from her community. An obstetric fistula is a hole between the birth canal and the bladder or rectum. It leaves survivors leaking urine or faeces – and sometimes both – through their vagina.  Australian surgeon Dr Catherine Hamlin is a pioneer in the treatment of obstetric fistulas. She still has the same adventurous spirit that took her to Ethiopia almost 60 years ago.   Her dream is to eradicate obstetric fistula forever, so that every woman can be free from these atrocious internal injuries.    Obstetric fistula can mostly be repaired with a single life-changing surgery that can take no more than an hour.  Hamlin Fistula Ethiopia takes a total care approach. One that seeks to repair, mend and heal all the scars – emotional and physical that come with this heartbreaking injury.    Dr Catherine Hamlin’s dream is to eradicate obstetric fistula forever, so that every woman can be free from this debilitating and isolating condition.

Other News

The International Toast was made by member Howard, to the Rotary Club of Surabaya, in Indonesia.  Last week, a coordinated suicide bomb attack carried out by members of the same family struck three churches in Indonesia’s second-largest city on Sunday. At least seven people plus the six family members died in the attacks in Surabaya, according to police. At least 41 people were injured in the attacks.  Our thoughts go out to Surabaya.