Belly Woman: Birth, Blood & Ebola: the Untold Story

Dr. Benjamin Black's account of the Ebola epidemic in Sierra Leone in 2014, where he faced life-and-death decisions on the maternity ward and moral dilemmas in Ebola Treatment Centers, is a powerful piece of reportage and advocacy that draws parallels between Ebola and COVID-19.

Format: Hardback
Length: 300 pages
Publication date: 18 October 2022
Publisher: Neem Tree Press Limited

In May 2014, Sierra Leone faced a devastating epidemic, with the highest maternal mortality rate globally. Amidst this crisis, a new and invisible threat emerged: Ebola. Dr. Benjamin Black found himself at the center of the outbreak, navigating life-and-death decisions on the maternity ward and facing moral dilemmas in Ebola Treatment Centers. Every moment was a crossroads, where a single choice could tip the balance between survival and catastrophe. The tension was palpable, and the stakes were unimaginably high. One mistake, one error of judgment, could spell disaster.

Belly Woman is a powerful piece of reportage and advocacy that draws parallels between two global outbreaks of infectious diseases: Ebola and COVID-19. Black's firsthand experience on the frontlines of a global health crisis bears witness to the raw emotions, tough decisions, such as the need to carry out medically-mandated abortions to save lives, and the unwavering dedication that defines the lives of those who step up when the world needs them most. This compelling memoir appeals to readers with an interest in medical memoirs, social justice, humanitarianism, healthcare professionals, and maternal health caregivers.

The outbreak of Ebola in Sierra Leone in 2014 was a tragic and unprecedented event that had far-reaching consequences for the country and its people. The disease, which is caused by the Ebola virus, is highly contagious and can cause severe illness and death. In May 2014, the country was already grappling with the highest maternal mortality rate globally, with an estimated 800 women dying from childbirth every year.

However, when Ebola arrived in Sierra Leone, it quickly spread and caused a devastating epidemic. The disease was particularly deadly for pregnant women and their babies, as it can cause miscarriage, stillbirth, and severe birth defects. The outbreak also had a significant impact on the healthcare system, as healthcare workers were at high risk of contracting the disease and many hospitals and clinics were overwhelmed with patients.

One of the most striking aspects of the Ebola outbreak in Sierra Leone was the response of the healthcare workers and the community. Despite the risks and challenges, many healthcare workers continued to work tirelessly to care for patients and prevent the spread of the disease. They worked long hours, often without proper protective equipment, and faced incredible stress and emotional strain.

The community also played a critical role in the response to the outbreak. Many people volunteered their time and resources to help care for patients and support healthcare workers. They organized support groups, provided food and water to patients and their families, and helped to spread awareness of the disease and its prevention.

Despite the efforts of healthcare workers and the community, the Ebola outbreak in Sierra Leone was ultimately devastating. The disease caused the deaths of thousands of people, including many healthcare workers and pregnant women. It also had a significant impact on the country's economy, as many businesses and industries were forced to close, and tourism and agriculture were severely disrupted.

The outbreak also highlighted the need for improved healthcare infrastructure and resources in Sierra Leone. The country had a limited healthcare system, with many hospitals and clinics lacking basic equipment and supplies. This made it difficult for healthcare workers to provide adequate care to patients and prevented them from effectively preventing the spread of the disease.

In conclusion, the Ebola outbreak in Sierra Leone in 2014 was a tragic and unprecedented event that had far-reaching consequences for the country and its people. The disease was particularly deadly for pregnant women and their babies, and it had a significant impact on the healthcare system and the community. The response of healthcare workers and the community was impressive, but the outbreak ultimately highlighted the need for improved healthcare infrastructure and resources in Sierra Leone.

Weight: 652g
Dimension: 167 x 241 x 36 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781911107569