A legacy of care and compassion
Between July 13th and 26th, dr. Tsion Asfaw, medical director at St. Mary Hospital in Dubbo, Ethiopia, visited the MSC mission in St. Philips, Eswatini.
Experience sharing visits across the region are a great opportunity for our sisters and staff to deepen their understanding of the Cabrinian charism and improve our services.
Below are some thoughts Dr. Tsion shared after her visit.
The purpose of my mission
My focus during this visit was to evaluate the scalability of an innovative operational research project currently implemented at St. Philip’s Clinic aimed at improving cervical cancer prevention in low-resource settings. The assessemnt is part of my Advanced Master's training in Global Health at the University of Milan. This work is crucial in addressing a significant public health challenge.
Why cervical cancer
Cervical cancer remains a leading cause of cancer mortality worldwide, disproportionately impacting underserved populations. Each year, approximately 604,000 new cases and 342,000 deaths occur due to cervical cancer, with over 90% of these fatalities in low- and middle-income countries. This initiative represents a vital step forward in developing sustainable strategies for cancer prevention and control, particularly in rural communities where healthcare access is limited. By addressing barriers to screening and treatment, we can significantly reduce the burden of this preventable disease.
The work in at St. Philip’s Clinic
The services provided by St. Philips Clinic to the community are commendable, particularly in the realm of primary healthcare. The clinic's outreach activities are well-organized and play a crucial role in increasing healthcare access for the community while reducing costs associated with hospital visits. Community outreach initiatives are essential in low-resource settings, as they bring healthcare services closer to those in need and foster trust between healthcare providers and the community. This proactive approach ensures that individuals receive timely medical attention, education, and support, ultimately leading to improved health outcomes.
The St. Philips Clinic team demonstrated exceptional organization in their outreach programs. Their approach not only improved healthcare accessibility but also created a supportive environment where patients receive both medical treatment and emotional support, reflecting the clinic's commitment to holistic health.
Dr. Tsion (first from left) with staff of St. Philip’s Clinic and HPV team from the University of Milan
Education of the heart
Witnessing the MSC Sisters' ministry with school children was truly inspiring. Their holistic approach combines scriptural teachings with joyful activities, fostering a generation grounded in faith and compassion. This nurturing environment not only promotes spiritual growth but also instills values of love and service in the younger generation.
Personal reflections
This experience has deepened my understanding of the importance of collaboration among sister organizations in the region to address health disparities. Such collaboration allows for the sharing of resources, knowledge, and best practices. Globally, these partnerships enhance the effectiveness of health interventions, particularly in primary care, where faith-based organizations play a crucial role in contributing to global health efforts. Their commitment to serving communities not only addresses immediate health needs but also fosters long-term resilience and empowerment.
As we reflect on our collective efforts, it is evident that every service provided, every lesson taught, and every prayer shared weaves a rich tapestry of hope and healing in the communities we serve.
“Together, we are not just making strides toward a healthier future; we are building a legacy of care and compassion.”
Dr. Tsion (second from left) with the MSC sisters adn the HPV team of the University of Milan