Posted On: 2024-05-28 13:16:39
Every year on May 28th, the world gathers to commemorate the International Day of Action for Women's Health. This day is dedicated to raising awareness about women's particular health challenges and campaigning for equal health rights. As we commemorate this historic anniversary, let us be inspired by women who have made extraordinary contributions to improve health conditions in their communities. Their stories demonstrate the power of perseverance, kindness, and drive.
Dr. Hawa Abdi, affectionately known as "Mother Teresa of Somalia," pioneered women's health and human rights. Despite enormous hurdles, she founded a clinic on her family's property, which subsequently grew into a hospital, school, and refugee camp. During the Somali Civil War, Dr. Abdi's work helped thousands of people, particularly women and children, by providing crucial medical treatments. Her unwavering commitment to health and human rights garnered her several awards, inspiring people to carry on her legacy of compassion and caring.
Laxmi Agarwal's tale is one of extraordinary strength and fortitude. After surviving an acid assault at the age of 15, she rose to prominence as an advocate for acid attack survivors' rights in India. Her campaigning resulted in substantial reforms, including stronger limits on acid sales and improved medical and legal assistance for survivors. Laxmi's unshakable spirit and advocacy activities have changed lives and raised awareness about a serious health and human rights problem.
Dr. Catherine Hamlin, an obstetrician from Australia, co-founded the Addis Ababa Fistula Hospital in Ethiopia with her husband. Throughout her life, she treated hundreds of women suffering from obstetric fistula, a terrible birthing injury. Dr. Hamlin's pioneering effort not only resulted in life-changing procedures but also taught local doctors and healthcare staff to carry on her mission. Her legacy lives on via the innumerable women whose lives she improved and the hospital's continuous operations.
Malala Yousafzai, the youngest-ever Nobel Prize recipient, is well-known for supporting girls' education. After surviving a Taliban murder attempt, she continued to advocate for girls' rights to education and health. She works with the Malala Fund to guarantee that girls throughout the globe have access to 12 years of free, safe, and high-quality education. Malala's tale emphasises the fundamental connection between education and health, allowing young women to escape the cycle of poverty and enhance their general well-being.
Filaantro along with Child Help Foundation believes that The International Day of Action for Women's Health serves as a compelling reminder of the ongoing problems and achievements in women's health. The tales of Dr. Hawa Abdi, Laxmi Agarwal, Dr. Catherine Hamlin, and Malala Yousafzai motivate us to take action and campaign for greater health and rights for women throughout the world. Let us honour their legacies by continuing to work for a society in which every woman has access to the care she requires and deserves.
AUTHOR: ATHIRA PRADEEP NAIR
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