Repairing the soul
How treating fistula damage goes beyond fixing the body.
Though this disability weakens their confidence and self-esteem, access to community programs can restore their lives and dignity.
In parts of Africa, Uganda and Ethiopia,it’s common for a maternal woman as young as 15 to experience chronic leaking of urine and feces— a disability otherwise known as obstetric fistula. It takes place when a rupture in the vagina, bladder and rectum occurs as the result of pressure from an infant’s head during prolonged obstructed labour.ed Epp, executive director of Christian Blind Mission (cbm), a non-profit organization focused on helping people with disabilities in the poorest countries of the world, says while a cure is available,it’s out of reach for many women. “It’s not life threatening and can be fixed with surgery,but a lot of times these women don’t get to a hospital due to lack of income.they tend to put their limited income into things that are life and death, like food,” he says. Often, the baby is born dead from stress and long delivery which is coupled with abandonment by the family and community because of the foul odor. But with financial aid from cbm, ex-
“(Women) tend to put their limited income into things that are life or death, like food.” penses for transportation and surgery are accessible.
The redefining moment
Without treatment these women become destitute, depressed and endure physical ailments such as infections, anemia and chronic illness. “Poverty will never be addressed if we don’t empower women. Access to income is vital for improving the family, education and the healthcare system,” Epps states. To create change in economic developments, cbm spreads awareness about fistula by educating communities so that women understand the import- ance of medical attention during birth. Thanks to generous donors, cbm Canada provided over 800 lifetransforming fistula operations last year and through support groups, more women can begin repairing the emotional damage which will have long term effects. These results are a beautiful indication that progress is being made, however, Canadian women are encouraged to put themselves in the shoes of women in the developing world.imagine a life without basic necessities followed by unwanted guilt and lack of love and support from friends or family. Even after a successful surgery, the memories surrounding this disability will always remain in their minds, but community organizations can provide an outlet where women can uplift and motivate themselves and each other, and look forward to a thriving future.