Local Story
Mary‘s Story
Mary is a mother of seven in Aluelweng village in South Sudan, and she’s just weeks away from giving birth to her eighth child.
“It’s tough being pregnant here. You still have to do a lot of heavy work,” Mary shared. “You’re the one to fetch water, cook, collect firewood and take care of your small children. This is a big challenge.”
There isn’t a hospital near Aluelweng, so Mary has taken the four-hour journey by foot to the local hospital only two times during her pregnancy. She doesn’t feel safe making the long walk for more prenatal appointment because she feels too vulnerable.
“We also don’t have a hospital here,” Mary said. “We have to go to Kuajok (which is about 4 hours away on foot). Walking all the way to Kuajok and back to handle all the heavy manual work can cause other problems and make you sick again, because it’s happening at a time that you’re vulnerable.”
“I’m supposed to see the doctor one last time before I deliver, but the hospital visit is cumbersome and there is no one to take care of my children when I leave,” Mary said.
Mary dreams of day when she and her family can see a doctor and get the care they need right in or near Aluelweng. A healthier, more abundant life is possible for Mary and others with your support.
