Betelehem’s Story
In November 2025, Betelehem was born with a cleft condition, something that her parents had never expected. From the very beginning, Betelehem struggled. She faced constant discomfort and illness.
For Betelehem’s mother, she endured the emotional and physical toll it brought. But nothing could have prepared her for the shame cast by her extended family, who blamed her for Betelehem’s condition. This shame led her to keep Betelehem inside, covering her face with a scarf when they did have to go out.
“Many people in my community made horrible comments about my daughter and told me that I was to blame for her condition.”
Betelehem before surgery for her cleft condition.
Betelehem’s mother eventually learned about Project Harar through her local health centre. After hearing of the service she became determined to get this treatmemt for her daughter, undertaking the long four hour journey to the hospital by a local bus service and local taxis.
When they arrived at the hospital Betelehem’s mother felt relieved seeing all of the other children with the same condition as her daughter. She spoke to mothers whose children had already received surgery for their cleft lip and were now returning to have their palate repaired.
Betelehem’s mother felt hopeful again; “The treatment was wonderful. We felt safe in the hospital and I felt hope for Betelehem’s future. Project Harar showed genuine care for my daughter.”
