Rahima is a 14-year-old girl from Harar in the Oromia region who arrived with her uncle, carrying a long history of illness that began in childhood. Repeated and untreated tonsillitis often managed only with traditional ginger tea, eventually led to severe mitral valve regurgitation, a life-threatening heart condition.
Today, Rahima became the 45th patient to receive free, life-saving cardiac surgery through Healing Valves Ethiopia.
Her surgery, a mitral valve replacement, was made possible by the generous support of Tegbar Organization from USA, who donated nearly 1 million birr to cover the cost of her treatment.
The procedure, led by Ethiopia’s pioneer cardiac surgeon Dr. Fekede Agwar, lasted about four hours. We are grateful to share that Rahima is now in the ICU in stable condition, beginning her journey toward recovery.
Rahima’s story reminds us that untreated infections like tonsillitis can lead to serious heart disease but with timely care and collective support, young lives can be saved.
We thank Tegbar Organization, our dedicated Surgical team, and everyone who continues to stand with Healing Valves Ethiopia in bringing hope and healing to children across the country.
