IMA Bringing Hope: Bette

By Douglas Bright/IMA

In the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Bette(not her real name) was nearing time for delivery of her baby. But there were serious complications, and she would need to go to a distant hospital. Her family and others from the village carried her as they began the journey.

But along the way, they were attacked by a rogue “military” gang, and Bette was viciously attacked and repeatedly raped. Those who had been carrying her fled for their lives.

Incredibly, Bette and her baby survived.

After the attack, IMA partners met with Bette, with her family and even her village, providing help and counseling. During her long recovery time, Bette also learned how to sew in order to work as a seamstress.

Six months later, a smiling, happy Bette greeted IMA partners visiting her village. She was teaching other women in her village how to sew — through Bette, sewing was becoming a cottage industry for the village. Remarkably, she had been fully restored to her family, friends and village. IMA works with several partners to bring health and healing to women like Bette, leading the USAID funded Sexual and Gender Based Violence program in eastern DR Congo.

Lives are being saved and restored every day thanks to your caring support.

Every donation makes an impact for someone in need. Please join us in saving lives and advancing health by providing a gift today.