Late one Sunday afternoon, Fatuma, a 35-year-old mother of eight, was rushed to Barbara May Maternity Hospital in Ethiopia after experiencing severe complications during labour.
She arrived in critical condition – weak, in shock, and soaked in blood from heavy bleeding. She was accompanied by six family members, including her mother, who cried desperately, “She is dead; please help her.”
The hospital team, led by Dr Omer, acted immediately, placing her on oxygen, securing IV lines, and preparing for emergency surgery.
During surgery, Fatuma went into cardiac arrest due to massive blood loss, but resuscitation efforts succeeded in restoring her heartbeat. Three units of blood were transfused – one from her son and two from other relatives. Her baby was delivered stillborn.
After the operation, the team anxiously waited for signs of recovery. After repeatedly calling her name gently, Fatuma responded by sticking out her tongue.
The entire operating room erupted in joy – celebrating her survival after such a near-death struggle.
“We are profoundly grateful to our hospital team, the APDA team, and the Barbara May Foundation, whose dedication and teamwork in this resource-limited setting help save the lives of mothers facing these catastrophic obstetric emergencies.” – Dr Omer
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