Fistula Foundation

Abigail, a 27-year-old woman from Plateau State, Nigeria, lived with rectovaginal fistula (fecal incontinence) for 10 years before learning that her condition was treatable. Her life with fistula was a constant struggle. “Most of the time, you just have to turn down invitations because you don’t want to go and embarrass yourself. And mind you, I’m also a single mother. I had guys asking me out, but I was too afraid to go outside. No matter how many perfumes you spray, the smell is always there,” said Abigail. “It’s so embarrassing.” Abigail was connected to our partner Evangel Vesico-Vaginal Fistula Center (EVVF) after a decade of unnecessary suffering. When she arrived at the facility, she was shocked to see that other women were fighting the same battle that she was. She cried at the thought of their shared pain. Relief washed over her when she realized that she could be...