Heart Attack Ethiopia Inc., a nonprofit organization founded by Ethiopian-American physicians Dr. Tesfaye Telila and Dr. Obsinet Merid, is set to embark on its second mission to Ethiopia. This initiative is dedicated to combating the alarming rise in premature deaths caused by heart attacks and strokes across the country. With a commitment to saving lives and improving cardiovascular health, the organization is making a profound impact on communities in Ethiopia and beyond.
A Global Effort with Local Roots
Based in Georgia, USA, Heart Attack Ethiopia has extended its reach far beyond American borders, with its efforts deeply embedded in the Ethiopian healthcare landscape. The organization collaborates closely with local partners and stakeholders to ensure that its initiatives are both culturally sensitive and sustainable. This partnership-driven approach is helping to build a healthier Ethiopia, one heartbeat at a time.
Mission-Driven Success
Under the leadership of Dr. Tesfaye Telila, Heart Attack Ethiopia’s team of dedicated doctors and volunteers has already made a significant impact. During their first mission in February 2024, a team of six medical professionals performed 32 life-saving cardiac procedures, offering hope and a new lease on life to those in desperate need. With over 6,000 people still on the waiting list for cardiac care in Ethiopia, the urgency of their mission is undeniable.
The organization’s second mission, scheduled for August 19-30, 2024, aims to save as many as 100 lives during a two-week operation at the Cardiac Center in Ethiopia. A crew of 16 healthcare professionals will arrive in Addis Ababa on August 17, 2024, bringing with them over $1 million worth of donated medical supplies. This critical mission underscores the organization’s unwavering commitment to addressing the cardiovascular health crisis in Ethiopia.
Empowering Ethiopian Medical Professionals
Beyond providing life-saving cardiac care, Heart Attack Ethiopia is also focused on empowering local medical professionals through its Volunteer Training Team (VTT) program. This initiative aims to enhance the skills and knowledge of Ethiopian doctors, ensuring that the impact of each mission extends well beyond the immediate care provided. By investing in the professional development of local healthcare workers, Heart Attack Ethiopia is helping to build a more resilient healthcare system in Ethiopia.
Building Global Partnerships
In a significant step toward global collaboration, Heart Attack Ethiopia recently facilitated a successful meeting between the Rotary Club of Peachtree City (Georgia, USA) and the Rotary Club of Addis Ababa East. This partnership represents a major leap forward in securing grants and sustaining ongoing cardiovascular missions in Ethiopia. Together, these organizations are working to combat heart disease and improve health outcomes across the region.
As the team prepares for its August mission, Heart Attack Ethiopia remains steadfast in its mission to save lives and improve the cardiovascular health of Ethiopians. Through global partnerships, local empowerment, and a deep commitment to care, the organization is making a lasting impact on the health and well-being of countless individuals.
