HABTAMU’S STORY
Habtamu, who is nine months old, came to our recent programme at GAMBY teaching and general hospital with his mother to receive cleft lip treatment.
His mother tells us about his birth and the difficulties she faced with breast feeding “when he was born, they told me he had this disease, it was hard, I started crying, and I didn’t understand why. I was so excited to have a son, but he had trouble sucking, so I had to feed him with other milk.”
Babies born with cleft lips often encounter challenges when it comes to breastfeeding due to their inability to create a proper seal for suction. This struggle can result in malnourishment, posing significant health risks for the child while causing immense distress for the parents. To address this critical issue, Project Harar takes proactive measures by conducting breastfeeding awareness courses and providing essential nutritional support to families affected by cleft conditions. These initiatives ensure that infants receive adequate nourishment until surgical treatment can be had.
Habtamu before surgery at GAMBY teaching and general Hospital.
Habtamu’s mother, goes on to tell us about how she hopes that they can use their experience to help others in the future. “This treatment given to my child is good. By seeing our experience, the others with this condition who have not been treated and are currently hidden in the village, will also get this treatment. In the future, I will serve as Project Harar to transmit information about this service in Kebele as well as Woreda in which I live.” Spreading awareness about cleft conditions can alleviate the stress and fear experienced by individuals facing such circumstances. By sharing information, experiences, and resources, those who are scared and uncertain can find solace and reassurance in knowing that they are not alone.
Highlighting the unfortunate reality that children, like Habtamu, who have facial differences, often face ostracization and exclusion from society, which takes a toll on their mental health. Receiving surgical treatment is not only vital for improving their physical health but also has a profound positive impact on their social well-being. It enables them to attend school, interact with their peers, and form meaningful friendships. However, Project Harar recognizes that the responsibility extends beyond providing treatment alone. We understand the importance of raising awareness and reducing stigma surrounding facial differences.
Habtamu and his mother after surgery at GAMBY teaching and general Hospital.