More often than not, women are abandoned by their husbands after their prolonged labor results in a fistula. They reek from fecal odor, and they walk around with blood and body fluid stained clothing. Most women resign themselves to a corner of their hut, and will not emerge during day hours for fear of being humiliated and chastised.
It is rare that a male will show concern or support, and when we do see tender gestures coming from them, our hearts break from watching their helplessness. It is comforting to know that Dr. Andrew is able to fix the fistula, but the need is so overwhelming that he can’t get to all of the patients. The fortunate women who find their way to the hospital have to wait weeks before their surgery can take place. While they wait, they sit in the garden outside of the hospital. The sun beats down, and an eerie silence ensues.
Everyone knows that time is of essence.
