In 1988 in central Illinois I gave birth to my first child. It was a traumatic birth and I suffered a bad rectal tear, but I had a healthy baby which was all that mattered. At first. The tear did not heal well and left me with an anal fistula that leaked fecal matter. I was 30 years old. Seven months after my daughter was born, I underwent a fistula repair surgery. Until this time, I had never heard of fistulas. My surgeon asked if medical students could observe my surgery because it didn’t happen that much in the USA and some of the doctors would be working in countries where it did happen more. I agreed. That’s how I learned that many women were not so fortunate as I was to get the surgery, with incredible social consequences. When I learned of Dr. Hamlin’s work, I knew I had to join her. It has been my honor to provide funds for a fistula surgery every year on my daughter’s birthday, which I will continue to do the rest of my days to honor the legacy of one of the most compassionate women who ever lived. Rest In Peace, dear Catherine.