Donard family joins popstar Natalie to support Ethiopaid charity
A Donard family joined with Australian pop star Natalie Imbruglia to show support for charity Ethiopiad recently following her successful show at Vicar Street in Dublin.
Natalie is a committed Ethiopiaid Ambassador for the eradication of Obstetric Fistula, a devastating condition caused by prolonged labour and childbirth. After her recent gig, she met three of her biggest fans – twins Joanne and Ruth (12) and Noel (10) – who were born in Ethiopia and now live in Donard with their adoptive parents, Harriet and Martin Andrews.
Maternal care is a critical and challenging issue in Ethiopia and Natalie is a vocal supporter of the campaign for the eradication of obstetric fistula, which affects thousands of women in Ethiopia each year. The Andrews family got to witness first-hand the provision of maternal care supported by Ethopiaid when Martin was CEO of the Hamlin Fistula Hospital in Addis Ababa from 2013 to 2016. The family understand the importance of Natalie’s role as Ambassador in speaking out to ensure all women in Ethiopia have access to good maternal healthcare. With Natalie’s help, Ethiopiaid will keep supporting the goal of eradicating obstetric fistula by 2020.
Harriet said: ‘We had the privilege of living and working on the grounds of the Hamlin Fistula Hospital in Addis Ababa and got to know many of the courageous patients who received free life-changing surgeries. Their lives were transformed beyond belief, no longer doubly incontinent or burdened by shame. It was such a joy to witness time and time again. I also got to lend a hand in the Hamlin College of Midwives outside Addis. With doctors in very short supply, qualified midwives are key to the future of improved maternal healthcare. Ethiopiaid is committed to supporting this life changing work for many years now. Natalie’s commitment is an inspiration to us all to continue to sing from the rooftops about the good that is being done and the difference we can all make.’
‘Obstetric fistula was eliminated here in Europe and the United States more than 100 years ago,’ said the Australian singer. ‘It’s unacceptable that women and girls in developing countries are still suffering from this entirely preventable and treatable condition.’
‘After that first field trip to Ethiopia, I could not forget about all those women suffering. I promised myself I would continue to shine a light on this issue and be a voice for them so they are not suffering in silence. As a woman it affected me deeply,’ she added.