Obstetrician who helped over 60,000 women, Dr Catherine Hamlin, dies aged 96

Australian obstetrician and gynaecologist Dr Catherine Hamlin has died in her home aged 96.

Along with her husband, the late Dr Reg Hamlin, Hamlin founded a charity called Hamlin Fistula Foundation that treated women suffering from obstetric fistula, a crippling condition that results from complications during childbirth. Thanks to Hamil, over the past 61 years more than 60,000 Ethiopian women have had access to surgery for the debilitating condition.

Speaking to the Sydney Morning Herald, Julie White, the chair of the Catherine Hamlin Fistula Foundation, said: “Catherine lived an incredible life having made an enormous difference to the lives and health of thousands upon thousands of women in Ethiopia. Her passionate commitment to women and maternal health through her trust and belief in fulfilling God’s work with love and devotion to others is something that we are all in awe of.”

Meanwhile, Carolyn Hardy, the chief executive of Catherine Hamlin Fistula Foundation, said: “To say Catherine was a remarkable woman is an understatement. In our eyes, she was a saint.”

Many people have since shared their condolences online, with one commenting: “RIP Dr Catherine Hamlin, surgeon who dedicated her life to helping women living with fistula in Ethiopia, giving them dignity & hope.”

Another added: “Rest In Peace Dr #CatherineHamlin. Thank you for making this world a better place.”

While a third wrote: “I’m deeply saddened by the passing away of Dr. Catherine Hamlin. It’s really a great loss to #Ethiopia especially in the area of fighting fistula. You’re in the hearts of millions #Ethiopian women. Thank you serving us! My sincere condolences to the family & loved ones #RIP.”