Project goal is to eradicate obstetric fistula from Ethiopia. Forever...

Women and girls with obstetric fistulas have suffered great trauma, but this does not need to be the end of their stories. They deserve not just to survive, but to have a full life in which they can pursue their hopes and dreams for their futures.

For more than six decades, the Catherine Hamlin Fistula Foundation has implemented our world-recognized approach to the holistic treatment of women and girls with obstetric fistulas — severe injuries resulting from prolonged, unrelieved and obstructed labor, typically in the absence of skilled birth attendants.

In 93% of cases, the mother suffers not only dramatic tissue damage, but she also loses her new baby. Nerve damage and weakened pelvic muscles make many daily tasks unmanageable. And, women are also often ostracized from their communities – cut off from avenues to leading a full, healthy and happy life.

The work is centered in Ethiopia, a country with one of the highest fertility and maternal mortality rates in the world. For most women, a single, life-changing operation — for as little as $700 CAD — can repair their injury and restore their life and dignity.

Myriad Canada is working with Hamlin Fistula Ethiopia and the Catherine Hamlin Fistula Foundation on this charitable project. They work towards the eradication of obstetric fistula in Ethiopia, one of the most horrific childbirth injuries imaginable, through surgical repair, patient rehabilitation, education and prevention.

In a single year, more than 6,000 patients are treated and more than 1,000 fistula and fistula-related surgeries are perform. Today, Hamlin Fistula Ethiopia is staffed by more than 550 Ethiopian medical professionals and five regional hospitals. They provide counseling and a range of training courses to support nearly 1,000 women in their recovery. Last year, Hamlin midwives delivered more than 30,000 babies.

Hamlin’s Rehabilitation and Reintegration Program at Desta Mender offers counseling, literacy and numeracy classes. Additional programs for vocational and life skills training help women find sustainable employment or to establish their own small businesses.