Awa

Burkina Faso

For five years, Awa lived with the pain and isolation caused by obstetric fistula following a complicated childbirth of her sixth child. Without access to prenatal care, her delivery became prolonged and traumatic, ultimately resulting in the loss of her baby and the onset of a debilitating fistula.

Despite her efforts to seek treatment — including two surgeries that were unsuccessful — Awa continued to suffer. She was stigmatized in her community, separated from her children, and left without support. At her lowest point, she felt hopeless and alone, as her family no longer believed she could be treated and healed.

Everything changed when she learned about ARENA Medical Center in Ouagadougou. With help from the ARENA team, Awa was able to travel to the facility, where she received compassionate care, successful surgery, and vocational training.

Today, Awa is healed, hopeful and rebuilding her life in her community. She is focused on caring for her children and creating a sustainable future. Her story is a testament to the power of healing and the importance of access to quality care.