Fast work to clear the runway at an isolated community allowed MAF to fly a woman who needed emergency treatment for pregnancy complications
Angeline is recovering in Madagascar’s capital Antananarivo after a swift response from MAF and its partners saved her life.
The 35-year-old woman had visited the health facility in Beroroha, in the southwest of the country, where it appeared she was suffering from an ectopic pregnancy.
MAF’s aircraft would fly to the area to bring the woman to hospital for specialist medical treatment, but the medevac was nearly prevented because the local Bemana airstrip was classed as inoperable.
“The airstrip was not in good condition. We called local people, hired people to clear the runway so we can land there and fly Angeline to the capital,” said Mamy Rahajarijaona, MAF flight operations co-ordinator in Madagascar.
Although in great discomfort, Angeline was able to sit upright in the aircraft for the short flight with MAF pilot Rutger Bakker. The journey took just under an hour, by road it would have taken at least three days.
As they stepped onto the tarmac for a transfer to the Mobile Hilfe Hospital (MHM), Angeline’s mother Vaha said, "She is the last of my three daughters. I knew she was not doing well, but I had no resources to help her, so thank you for bringing us here. “We do not have any family here, and this is our first time coming to the capital."
We called local people, hired people to clear the runway so we can land there and fly Angeline to the capital
Thankfully the collaboration of MAF partners ensured a warm welcome for Angeline.
Hospital director Tanja Hock said, “If she comes here, we will immediately take care of her here for free.” Stefan Frank, from Christian organisation Nehemia Madagasikara, added “If she comes to the capital, we have room to host her.”
On arrival, Angeline shifted uncomfortably and said, "I have pain on the side of my belly. I cannot sit for long and I cannot really work.
“As a farmer, I rely on my strength to till the land. Now, even simple movements are painful. Back in my village, I grow cassava, sweet potatoes and corns. After harvest I sell them at the market.”
Her mother added, “Angeline has already had complications with her first two children, but this time was different, so I was worried, especially when the doctor told us to go to a bigger town with a more equipped hospital."
Now, even simple movements are painful
The day she arrived at the hospital, her condition was diagnosed. A day later, the team performed a successful surgery, and Angeline is now in recovery.
A week after her surgery, Angeline said, “It is not hurting anymore, I already want to go home but I would like to fully recover before.”
Pilot and flight operations manager Wouter Nagel reflected on the impact of MAF’s involvement.
“At first she didn’t seem to be very sick, but it turned out to be a lifesaving flight,” he said.