Meet the Doctors That Saved My Mom’s Life

Meet the Doctors That Saved My Mom’s Life By- Abel Asrat Last week, something extraordinary happened in our family—an event that brought healing, closure, and hope after years of silent anguish. My mother, who had waited nearly five years for life-saving heart treatment, finally received her long-overdue coronary angiogram and angioplasty. Behind this medical miracle stands a team of brilliant doctors and selfless volunteers, whose dedication transformed a personal tragedy into a powerful story of resilience and renewal. A Family’s Long Wait for Healing My mother’s heart problems weren’t new. We’ve lived with the looming fear of losing her for years. Every phone call from her felt like a 911 alert in my mind. That fear was rooted in a deeper wound—my father, who suffered from the same heart condition, never received the chance to get treated. He passed away, leaving us devastated and haunted by “what-ifs.” So when my mom was finally called by The Children’s Heart Fund of Ethiopia – Cardiac Center Ethiopia, it marked a turning point. She had been on a waiting list for years—five long years—for this procedure. She got the call, and soon after, she underwent her long-awaited coronary angiogram and angioplasty. The procedure was successful. Today, she is in full recovery, and for the first time in years, our family can breathe freely. The Heroes Behind the Scenes This transformation didn’t happen in a vacuum. It was the result of extraordinary people working with a vision bigger than any one patient. Leading the charge was Dr. Tesfaye Telila, a highly respected interventional cardiologist based in the United States, and Dr. Obsinet Merid, whose deep commitment to cardiovascular health in Ethiopia has impacted countless lives. Dr. Tesfaye Telila and his team recently completed 165 life-saving cardiovascular procedures in Ethiopia—procedures that would have otherwise cost patients upwards of $15,000 to $20,000 in a U.S. healthcare setting. These interventions not only changed the medical outcomes of hundreds of families but also offered dignity, access, and renewed hope to those long denied it. What struck me the most about Dr. Telila’s mission, beyond the technical brilliance, was the genuine spirit of partnership and sustainable impact. His team’s work was done in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Health Ethiopia, under the leadership of Dr. Mekdes Daba, the Minister of Health, and her senior officials. This wasn’t just a temporary medical campaign—it was part of a broader vision to strengthen Ethiopia’s cardiovascular care system through collaboration with local institutions and experts. A Sacred Partnership: The Heart Attack Ethiopia Initiative Equally important was the role of HEART ATTACK Ethiopia, an initiative co-founded by Dr. Telila, which focuses on bringing cardiovascular care to underserved populations. Their goal is not just to intervene during crises but to build a system—a sustainable infrastructure where local medical professionals are trained, empowered, and supported to deliver ongoing cardiac care. The mission culminated in a celebration at the Ministry of Health, where Dr. Telila and his team were welcomed with traditional Ethiopian coffee, heartfelt words from the Minister, and a shared sense of purpose. That spirit of collaboration and mutual respect is what will make this mission last beyond any single procedure. More Than a Heartbeat: A New Purpose For my mother, this wasn’t just a medical procedure—it was a new lease on life. For me, it was a call to action. I’m forever indebted to these doctors, not only for saving my mother’s life but for reminding me that collective action, compassion, and knowledge can change the course of a family’s future. I’ve made it my mission to mobilize resources, raise awareness about this incredible center, and support the heroes who are building a more just and accessible healthcare system in Ethiopia. I’ll be sharing my plans soon, and I hope many of you reading this will join me. Together, we can ensure that more mothers and fathers live to see their grandchildren, that no family loses a loved one just because of geography or lack of means. To Dr. Tesfaye Telila, Dr. Obsinet Merid, the volunteers from the U.S., the team at the Cardiac Center Ethiopia, and the Ministry of Health—thank you. You didn’t just save a life. You saved a family. ❤️🇪🇹🇺🇸 If you’d like to learn more about how you can support the Cardiac Center or HEART ATTACK Ethiopia, feel free to reach out. Let’s build a world where no one dies waiting for a chance at life.

President of Ethiopian Health Professionals Association and Doctors Arrested Amid Growing Tensions

President of Ethiopian Health Professionals Association and Doctors Arrested Amid Growing Tensions The President of the Ethiopian Health Professionals Association, Ato Yonatan Daneye, along with three doctors from Arba Minch General Hospital, has been taken into police custody. This brings the total number of health professionals arrested in Addis Ababa, the Amhara Region, and the Southern Nations, Nationalities, and Peoples’ Region to five. Meanwhile, five others detained in Addis Ababa were released after two days. According to the association’s Vice President, Ato Meles Bata, Ato Yonatan—who has publicly supported the recent movement of health professionals—was arrested on Sunday, May 11, 2025 (Gregorian calendar). Ato Yonatan, a health worker at Bichena Primary Hospital in East Gojam Zone, has been leading the association since its founding in 2015. Speaking to the BBC, Ato Meles stated that Yonatan was taken from his home on Sunday afternoon. “He called me on Saturday and mentioned that both the hospital and local police station were seeking to question him,” Meles said. “He was arrested the following day.” Meles managed to speak briefly with Yonatan after his arrest. While Yonatan indicated that he was not facing serious problems, the call was abruptly cut off before further details could be shared. Meles believes the arrest is connected to the health professionals’ recent collective actions. He cited multiple warnings received by both himself and Yonatan as indicators of targeted pressure. The association had previously issued letters urging health professionals to respond firmly but responsibly to ongoing issues, including salary grievances and working conditions. “We are confident the arrest is linked to the association’s involvement,” Meles added. “Even if others are involved, that is not our concern.” Yonatan is not the only health professional detained in relation to these protests. On Friday, May 09, 2025 (Gregorian calendar), three doctors from Arba Minch General Hospital—Dr. Barnabas Samuel, Dr. Melaku Almau, and Dr. Habtamu Getachew—were arrested, according to their families. All three are also lecturers at Arba Minch University. Family members told the BBC that images of the three doctors participating in Friday’s protest were circulated on social media. Following this, the doctors were summoned to the hospital, where government officials and security forces were reportedly present. They were later arrested and taken to the Gamo Zone Police Station on suspicion of “coordinating the health workers’ movement.” However, Dr. Ambachew Duma, manager of Arba Minch General Hospital, denied the arrests, telling the BBC that he had met with the health professionals and reached an agreement. “No one has been arrested,” he claimed. In Addis Ababa, four health workers were also detained after expressing support for the movement at their health center in the Keraniyo Sub-City of Nefas Silk. The arrests occurred on Wednesday, May 07, 2025 (Gregorian calendar). Among them was Degnesh Tilahun, a community health worker with 30 years of service. Her husband, Rev. Dawit Garuma, told the BBC that police arrived later that afternoon and detained the group at the Jemo Michael Police Station. All four were released on bail on Friday, May 09, 2025, prior to appearing in court, their families said. Later that same day, pharmacist Gebru Melka was arrested while leaving work at the Addis Ketema Sub-City Woreda 9 Health Center. According to a close friend who spoke to the BBC anonymously due to safety concerns, Gebru is currently being held at the Fourth Police Station in the Merkato area. His arrest was reportedly linked to a group photo taken in support of the movement. Gebru was scheduled to appear in the Addis Ababa City First District Court on Saturday, May 10, 2022 (Gregorian calendar). The court granted police five days of the twelve requested for further investigation. Michael Tsegaye, a midwife nurse at the same health center, was arrested a day earlier, on Wednesday, May 3, 2017 (Gregorian calendar). He was released on Friday, May 09, 2025, after two days in custody. Reports also indicate that doctors at Agaro Hospital in the Jimma Zone of Oromia Region were detained and have since been released.

A Tale of Two Times: Aklilu Lemma and Heman Bekele’s Timeless Innovations in Soap

A Tale of Two Times: Aklilu Lemma and Heman Bekele’s Timeless Innovations in Soap From Ethiopia to the World: The Transformative Power of Soap in the Hands of Two Visionaries In the rich tapestry of Ethiopia’s history, two figures stand out for their innovative use of a seemingly simple substance: soap. Aklilu Lemma, a pioneering scientist, and Heman Bekele, a young prodigy, have both harnessed the power of soap to address some of the world’s most pressing health challenges. Their stories, separated by decades but united by a shared heritage and a common goal, highlight the profound impact that ingenuity, nurtured in Ethiopia, can have on the global stage. Aklilu Lemma: A Soap to Fight Disease Born in 1935 in Addis Ababa, Aklilu Lemma grew up with a deep curiosity about the natural world. This curiosity led him to study biology and medicine, eventually culminating in a discovery that would revolutionize the fight against schistosomiasis, a debilitating parasitic disease affecting millions in developing countries. Aklilu’s breakthrough came from observing a traditional Ethiopian practice. Women in rural areas used the berries of the Endod plant (Phytolacca dodecandra) as soap for washing clothes. He noticed that in the rivers where this practice was common, the freshwater snails that spread schistosomiasis were notably absent. Intrigued, Aklilu conducted research and found that the saponins in the Endod plant were effective in killing these snails, thus breaking the cycle of disease transmission. This discovery was a game-changer. It provided a simple, cost-effective, and locally available method to combat a deadly disease. Aklilu’s work earned him international recognition and numerous awards, including the prestigious Right Livelihood Award. His legacy lives on as a testament to how traditional knowledge, coupled with scientific inquiry, can lead to groundbreaking solutions. Heman Bekele: A Soap to Fight Cancer Fast forward to the present day, and another Ethiopian, Heman Bekele, is making waves with his own soap-related innovation. Born in Addis Ababa and raised in the United States, Heman has always been driven by a passion for science. This passion, combined with a deep concern for public health, led him to create a soap that could one day treat and prevent multiple forms of skin cancer. Heman’s inspiration came from observing the harsh realities of sun exposure. He recalled seeing laborers in Ethiopia working under the scorching sun without protection, a memory that stayed with him even after moving to the U.S. Determined to make a difference, Heman began researching skin cancer and the potential treatments available. He learned about imiquimod, a drug that shows promise in fighting various forms of skin cancer but is often expensive and inaccessible. Heman’s solution was both simple and ingenious: a bar of soap infused with lipid-based nanoparticles carrying the drug. This would allow the therapeutic agent to linger on the skin even after washing, making it more accessible and affordable than traditional treatments. His invention won him the 3M Young Scientist Challenge, along with $25,000 to further his research. The Road to TIME’s Kid of the Year 2024 Heman’s dedication to solving a global health issue did not go unnoticed. In October 2023, his innovative work earned him the prestigious title of 3M Young Scientist Challenge winner. But that was just the beginning. The recognition of his groundbreaking idea and his commitment to public health propelled him into the national spotlight. Heman’s story of perseverance, creativity, and a desire to make a meaningful impact on the world caught the attention of TIME magazine. Each year, TIME selects a Kid of the Year who exemplifies extraordinary achievement and promise. Heman, with his vision of creating a soap that could revolutionize skin cancer treatment, fit the bill perfectly. His ability to think beyond the conventional and address a critical health issue with such a simple yet effective solution led TIME to name him Kid of the Year for 2024. As Kid of the Year, Heman joins an elite group of young innovators who are making a difference in the world. His recognition by TIME magazine highlights not only his individual brilliance but also the broader potential of young people to contribute to global solutions. It’s a reminder that age is no barrier to innovation, and that the drive to help others can lead to remarkable achievements. Ethiopia and the Power of Soap Though separated by time and the specifics of their work, Aklilu Lemma and Heman Bekele share a common thread that ties them to their Ethiopian roots. Both saw potential in a simple bar of soap—a household item often taken for granted—and transformed it into a tool for public health. Their innovations are not just about soap; they are about harnessing local knowledge, addressing global health challenges, and improving lives. Ethiopia, with its rich history and vibrant culture, has produced countless visionaries who have made significant contributions to the world. Aklilu and Heman are part of this legacy, demonstrating how a blend of traditional practices and modern science can yield solutions that resonate far beyond their origins. In a world where health disparities are often stark, the stories of these two Ethiopians offer a powerful reminder: sometimes, the simplest ideas—rooted in everyday life—can have the most profound impact. Whether it’s using a plant-based soap to combat a parasitic disease or infusing a bar of soap with cancer-fighting agents, the ingenuity and determination of Aklilu Lemma and Heman Bekele continue to inspire, proving that great ideas can come from anywhere, and that they can change the world.

Transforming Healthcare in Ethiopia: The Vision Behind Medanit

Transforming Healthcare in Ethiopia: The Vision Behind Medanit In the rapidly evolving landscape of healthcare, Medanit has emerged as a groundbreaking platform in Ethiopia, reshaping how medical services are accessed and delivered. Founded on a deeply personal experience and a vision to bridge the healthcare gap in the country, Medanit is more than just a platform—it’s a movement towards a more accessible, efficient, and inclusive healthcare system. In an insightful interview, Beamlak Alemayehu, the sole founder of Medanit, shared the journey, challenges, and aspirations behind this innovative venture. The Birth of Medanit: From Personal Experience to Public Solution The inspiration to create Medanit came from a profound personal experience. Beamlak Alemayehu witnessed firsthand the challenges of accessing timely and reliable medical care when a close family member faced a healthcare crisis in Ethiopia. This experience highlighted the critical need to bridge the gap between patients and healthcare providers. It was not just about the availability of healthcare but also about the accessibility and efficiency of the system. “When a close family member faced difficulty accessing timely and reliable medical care, I realized how critical it was to bridge the gap between patients and healthcare providers,” Beamlak explained. This realization, coupled with professional insights into the information gap between patients and providers and the life-threatening consequences of disorganized medical data, laid the foundation for Medanit. The journey from the initial idea to launching the platform involved extensive research, forming strategic partnerships with healthcare professionals, and leveraging technology to create a solution tailored to the unique needs of the Ethiopian market. Medanit’s Unique Value Proposition: Comprehensive Healthcare at Your Fingertips Medanit sets itself apart in the Ethiopian healthcare landscape by offering a comprehensive healthcare experience. Unlike other platforms that might focus on a single aspect of care, Medanit integrates a range of services, making it a one-stop solution for all healthcare needs. The platform not only facilitates consultations and lab tests but also ensures that patients receive the correct medication through a seamless delivery system. One of the key differentiators of Medanit is its Electronic Medical Recording (EMR) system and inventory management system, which are crucial for healthcare providers. These innovative technologies help streamline the operations of healthcare facilities, ensuring that patient data is organized, accessible, and used effectively to enhance care outcomes. Beamlak elaborated, “Our platform integrates various services, including consultations, lab tests, and medication delivery, making it a one-stop solution as we also provide EMR and inventory systems to healthcare providers.” Simplifying Healthcare: Key Features and User Experience Medanit is designed with the user in mind, offering features that simplify the healthcare process. Users can search for doctors based on their specialty, book consultations and appointments online, order lab tests, and have prescriptions filled and delivered to their doorstep. The platform also provides professional telemedicine services, mental health consultations via a dedicated call center, and an all-in-one medical directory system. To ensure the quality and reliability of the services offered, Medanit has implemented a rigorous vetting process for all healthcare providers listed on the platform. This includes verifying credentials, checking reputations, and ensuring that providers meet the platform’s high standards for patient care. “We have a rigorous vetting process for all healthcare providers who wish to be listed on Medanit. This includes verifying their credentials, checking their reputation, and ensuring they meet our standards for patient care,” Beamlak emphasized. This commitment to quality is further supported by regular user feedback and adherence to government-issued standards and licenses. Accessibility is another cornerstone of Medanit’s mission. Recognizing that not all users are tech-savvy, the platform has been designed to be intuitive and easy to navigate. For those who may struggle with technology, Medanit offers step-by-step guides and customer support. Moreover, the platform is optimized to perform under 2G internet coverage, ensuring that even users with limited connectivity can access healthcare services. “Our goal is to make the platform as accessible as possible, regardless of the user’s level of technological experience,” Beamlak stated. Overcoming Challenges and Making an Impact Launching and scaling Medanit in Ethiopia was not without its challenges. From navigating regulatory requirements to building trust with users and overcoming infrastructure limitations, especially in rural areas, the journey was fraught with obstacles. However, these challenges also drove innovation, pushing the team to create a platform that truly meets the needs of its users. “Educating the public about the benefits of digital healthcare was crucial to our success,” Beamlak reflected. The impact of Medanit on the Ethiopian healthcare system is already evident. One particularly moving success story involves a user from a remote area of Oromia. When his child needed medical treatment in Addis Ababa, the father faced significant challenges due to unfamiliarity with the city and a language barrier. After days of struggling to navigate the healthcare system, he found Medanit’s call center number through a hospital nurse. The platform guided him to the necessary lab investigations and medication, demonstrating Medanit’s ability to make a tangible difference in the lives of its users. Expanding Horizons: Future Plans and Vision Looking ahead, Medanit has ambitious plans to expand its services within Ethiopia and potentially to other regions facing similar healthcare challenges. The platform aims to enhance its service offerings, including specialized care and mental health services, and to expand its network of healthcare providers. Beamlak also hinted at plans to extend Medanit’s reach beyond Ethiopia, exploring opportunities in other African regions where the need for accessible healthcare is equally pressing. In terms of legacy, Beamlak hopes that Medanit will be remembered as a pioneer in digital healthcare in Ethiopia. “We work restlessly so that Medanit will be a pioneer in digital healthcare in Ethiopia, one that significantly improved access to quality healthcare for all, regardless of location or income,” Beamlak said. The ultimate goal is for Medanit to be synonymous with innovation, inclusivity, and a steadfast commitment to improving the lives of the people it serves. A Glimpse into the Founder’s Background Beamlak Alemayehu brings a rich educational and professional background to Medanit. With a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Nursing and a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Social Work, Beamlak has a strong foundation in both healthcare and social services. Currently, they are pursuing a Master of Business Administration (MBA) to further enhance their leadership and business skills. This diverse background uniquely positions Beamlak to lead Medanit, blending healthcare expertise with business acumen to navigate the complex challenges of the Ethiopian healthcare landscape. Medanit is more than just a healthcare platform—it’s a beacon of hope for millions of Ethiopians who struggle to access quality healthcare. Through innovative technology, a commitment to quality, and a deep understanding of the local context, Medanit is transforming the healthcare landscape in Ethiopia. As the platform continues to grow and expand, it holds the promise of a future where healthcare is accessible, efficient, and inclusive for all.

Med In Ethiopia Announces Exciting New Features to Enhance User Experience and Collaboration for Health Professionals

Med In Ethiopia Announces Exciting New Features to Enhance User Experience and Collaboration for Health Professionals Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – [July 11, 2024] – https://medinethiopia.com an online professional guidance platform for Ethiopian healthcare workers, is thrilled to announce a series of updates designed to elevate the user experience, promote collaboration, and streamline access to opportunities in the healthcare sector. This latest enhancement reaffirms medinethiopia.com commitment to providing invaluable resources and networking opportunities for healthcare professionals across the country. Introducing Personalized Preference Subscriptions and Calendar Integration One of the standout features of this update is the launch of the Preference Subscription Service. This feature allows users to customize their experience by setting up personalized email alerts tailored to their professional interests and career goals. Whether users are seeking scholarships, looking for training programs, or searching for the latest events in health care, the Preference Subscription Service ensures they receive relevant information directly to their inbox. Additionally, medinethiopia.com now offers Calendar Integration, a highly anticipated feature that syncs opportunity alerts with the calendar applications that users already utilize. This integration enables health professionals to seamlessly manage their schedules, keep track of upcoming events, and plan their career development activities with greater ease and efficiency. New Collaborative Contributions from Health Professionals In response to growing demand for diverse insights and shared knowledge, medinethiopia.com is excited to introduce a new section featuring contributions from a range of health professionals. This collaborative platform allows experts from various fields to share their expertise through Guest Blogs and Expert Opinions, offering valuable perspectives and cultivating a sense of community among Ethiopia’s healthcare professionals. Enhanced Existing Features The update also includes enhancements to the platform’s existing features: Opportunity Blogs: A comprehensive resource for the latest scholarships, grant opportunities, and professional development programs.Insider Blogs: Featuring insightful articles from health professionals within the Med In Ethiopia team, these blogs provide readers with relevant information, emerging trends, and professional advice.Data Visualization Hub: This feature highlights interactive data visualizations, making it easier for users to access and interpret health data, trends, and statistics relevant to their practice. “Our goal has always been to create a comprehensive yet user-friendly platform that not only meets the needs of healthcare workers but also enriches collaboration and professional growth. With these updates, we are taking a major step forward in supporting healthcare professionals in Ethiopia. We believe these new features will empower our users to achieve their career goals and ultimately contribute to the advancement of healthcare in Ethiopia.”Dr Michael Mengesha, Co-founder and Head of Operations, medinethiopia.com About Med In Ethiopia medinethiopia.com is a pioneering digital platform dedicated to supporting Ethiopia’s health professionals. Launched with the vision of enhancing the healthcare sector through information, networking, and professional growth, medinethiopia.com offers a range of features including professional opportunities, educational resources, and a vibrant community for health professionals. For more information about Med In Ethiopia and to explore the new features, please visit www.medinethiopia.com Contact Information Media Inquiries: Hiwot WoldeCo-founder and Marketing Manager medinethiopia.comEmail: info@medinethiopia.com Phone: +251-934468240 Stay Connected Follow us on social media for the latest updates and announcements: -Telegram https://t.me/medinethiopiainsider LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/med-in-ethiopia/ medinethiopia.com – Empowering Health Professionals, Advancing Healthcare in Ethiopia.

World Bank pledges $ 195 million to support health sector in Ethiopia

World Bank pledges $ 195 million to support health sector in Ethiopia The World Bank has provided $ 195 million to support the health sector in Ethiopia and to provide CV-19 vaccine to its citizens. Funding will also support Ethiopia’s efforts to make CV-19 vaccines available nationwide and rehabilitate conflict-affected public health facilities. In addition to helping the underprivileged health system in Ethiopia, the current funding will help increase the coverage of CVD-19 vaccine below 30 percent and reduce the spread of CVD-19 by expanding immunization activities across the country, said Osman Dion, Director of the World Bank in Ethiopia. In terms of maternal and child health, access to nutrition and other key services, the funding will contribute to the delivery of conflict-affected rural areas and vulnerable communities, as well as Ethiopia’s health system. In addition, the support will be used by Ethiopia to purchase CVD-19 vaccine, supply hospital inpatient unit (ICU) equipment, improve the treatment of patients with CVD-19 and other diseases, and train community health professionals. According to the Ministry of Finance, the grant will support Ethiopia’s efforts to deliver CV-19 vaccine to 60 percent by the end of 2023. An additional $ 195 million has been provided by the World Bank, which has provided $ 495 million in financial assistance to Ethiopia. Tags ethiopian news World Bank