Our Story
Healing Hands of Joy was founded in 2009 by Allison Shigo and Brett O’Donnell, inspired by the Emmy-Award winning documentary "A Walk to Beautiful." This film highlighted the struggles of Ethiopian women suffering from obstetric fistula. Recognizing the urgent need for prevention and social reintegration services, Allison established the Safe Motherhood Ambassador program. This initiative empowers fistula survivors with counseling, maternal health education, and vocational training, enabling them to become advocates for safe delivery in their communities.