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: Paperback / softback
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 had the highest maternal mortality rate globally, with an estimated 1,100 women dying from childbirth each day.

The outbreak of Ebola in Sierra Leone was a devastating blow to the country's healthcare system, which was already struggling to provide basic services to its population. The disease spread rapidly, and many healthcare workers were infected and died, leaving the system overwhelmed and unable to cope with the demand for care.

The outbreak of Ebola in Sierra Leone also had significant social and economic consequences. The disease caused widespread fear and panic, leading to a decline in tourism and investment, and a rise in food insecurity and poverty. Many families were forced to flee their homes, and many businesses were closed, resulting in a loss of income and employment.

The response to the outbreak of Ebola in Sierra Leone was a complex and multifaceted effort that involved the government, international organizations, and local communities. The government launched a comprehensive response plan, including the establishment of Ebola Treatment Centers and the distribution of medical supplies and equipment. International organizations, such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), provided support and funding to help combat the disease.

Local communities also played a critical role in the response to the outbreak. Community health workers, known as "Community Health Volunteers," were trained to identify and isolate cases of Ebola and to provide care and support to those affected by the disease. Community leaders and religious organizations also played a vital role in promoting awareness and education about Ebola and in providing emotional support to those affected by the disease.

Despite the efforts of the government, international organizations, and local communities, the outbreak of Ebola in Sierra Leone was a devastating and tragic event that had far-reaching consequences for the country and its people. The disease caused widespread fear and panic, led to a decline in tourism and investment, and caused a rise in food insecurity and poverty. The response to the outbreak was a complex and multifaceted effort that involved the government, international organizations, and local communities, but it was not enough to prevent the disease from spreading and causing further harm.

The outbreak of Ebola in Sierra Leone serves as a reminder of the importance of investing in healthcare infrastructure and in the training and support of healthcare workers. It also highlights the need for global cooperation and collaboration in responding to infectious disease outbreaks, as well as the importance of promoting awareness and education about infectious diseases and their prevention.

In conclusion, the outbreak of Ebola in Sierra Leone in 2014 was a devastating and tragic event that had far-reaching consequences for the country and its people. The disease caused widespread fear and panic, led to a decline in tourism and investment, and caused a rise in food insecurity and poverty. The response to the outbreak was a complex and multifaceted effort that involved the government, international organizations, and local communities, but it was not enough to prevent the disease from spreading and causing further harm. The outbreak serves as a reminder of the importance of investing in healthcare infrastructure and in the training and support of healthcare workers, as well as the need for global cooperation and collaboration in responding to infectious disease outbreaks.

Weight: 498g
Dimension: 157 x 234 x 29 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781911107576