Recently, our partner surgeon Dr. Maureen Okango was featured on a podcast episode produced by Girls’ Globe. Dr. Maureen is based at Vihiga County Referral Hospital, a partner within the Fistula Foundation Treatment Network in Kenya.
In the episode—released on International Day to End Obstetric Fistula (May 23)—Dr. Maureen shares her insights about obstetric fistula, her hope for patients who still await care, and her advice for early-career medical professionals with an interest in obstetric fistula treatment.
Dr. Maureen acknowledges that being a fistula surgeon is hard work, and says that it’s sad to witness so much unnecessary suffering. Yet, to young medical professionals with an interest in pursuing this field of care, she offers encouragement.
“[Fistula patients] change our lives,” said Dr. Maureen. “The hope that comes from restoring women’s dignity is worth it. … [S]omeone needs to fight for them.”
“There is hope for these women,” Dr. Maureen said. She also offered a message for those who support the work of healing them: “You’re changing lives. … Don’t lose hope.”
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Published on June 21, 2023