Miracle in Addis: How Ethiopian Doctors Gave My Friend a Second Life
Miki after a successful surgery
BY: Yirga Gebremedhin Tsegay
On March 12th, I found myself rushing to Tazma Cardiac Surgery Center (https://www.linkedin.com/company/tazma-medical-and-surgical-specialized-center/) in Addis Ababa, searching for the earliest possible appointment and an affordable option for my friend’s life-saving cardiac surgery. Every second felt like an eternity, and with each passing moment, the weight of uncertainty pressed down on us. It was there that Ethiopian doctors performed a miracle, saving my friend’s life with their skill and care.
Dr. Bisrat Gebremedin, a close friend and one of the finest surgeons in Mekelle, who recommended Tazma Hospital to us. Trusting his expertise, we decided to make our way there, hoping it would be the place that could finally offer a solution.
The Urgent Case
My friend had been on an exhausting medical journey — from Axum to Mekelle (Ayder Hospital), and then to Addis Ababa, moving through Tikur Anbessa Hospital and the Ethiopian Cardiac Center in just a week. At every stop, doctors treated us with remarkable empathy and professionalism. The Ethiopian Doctors warned us of the urgency — his heart harbored a dangerous vegetation, fluid had accumulated around his lungs, and two of his heart valves were critically damaged, requiring immediate replacement. Time was not on our side.
A Race Against Time and Cost
At the Ethiopian Cardiac Center, we were fortunate to get an immediate check-up, but securing a surgery date was nearly impossible. The doctor advised us to try private cardiac centers, hoping for a faster alternative.
Before heading to Tazma, we inquired about the cost of the surgery at two private hospitals. To our surprise, both hospitals quoted nearly the same price — close to 1 million ETB (approximately $8,065 USD at an exchange rate of 124 ETB/USD). It was an overwhelming amount, yet at that moment, nothing mattered more than saving a life.
A Lifesaving Encounter at Tazma
Determined to find a solution, we rushed to Tazma Cardiac Surgery Center, our last hope. The moment we walked through the doors, something felt different. The staff, the atmosphere — it all radiated competence and care.
At the reception, we met Dr. Abdulhafiz, a doctor whose talent was only matched by his kindness. After listening to our desperate plea, he did something unexpected — he reassured us with confidence. “If the case is as critical as you say, we will assemble the surgical team tonight,” he promised. Those words felt like a miracle. Finally, someone who didn’t just see a patient but understood the urgency of our pain.
Miki, my friend, underwent a thorough check-up, and while the doctor confirmed the need for surgery, he assured us that it wasn’t as immediate as we had feared. They offered to admit him right away, but we chose to stay the night and proceed with admission the next morning.
The Moment of Truth — Surgery Day
Thursday morning arrived, and we completed all the necessary payments. Miki was admitted, and the pre-surgery procedures began. Over the next few days, he underwent extensive tests, preparations, and monitoring. Then, on Tuesday morning, the moment we had been dreading and praying for arrived — Miki was wheeled into the operating room.
I will never forget that day. The cold reality of the operating room doors closing behind him was terrifying. We could only wait and pray.
For nearly eight hours, the skilled hands of Dr. Shibikom, the senior surgeon, and his team worked relentlessly. Every passing hour felt heavier than the last. Then, suddenly, he appeared — the doctor we had been waiting for. Dr. Shibikom walked out with an incredible smile, a smile that radiated joy and victory. With unwavering confidence, he delivered the news:
“The surgery was successful.”
In that moment, relief washed over us like a flood. We thanked God and St. Mary from the deepest corners of our souls. It was a miracle we had longed for. But one more thing remained — seeing Miki.
A Second Chance at Life
For the next four hours, we waited anxiously until the next piece of good news came — Miki had woken up! Though he couldn’t speak, he was conscious, and the doctors said he had even requested warm drinks like tea and soup. Seeing him fight to smile at his father-in-law, despite his weakness, was a moment of pure emotion.
A few days later, he was moved from the ICU to a recovery ward, where he continued his healing journey. And then, the moment we all had prayed for — Miki was discharged! Walking out of that hospital, alive and on the road to recovery, felt like witnessing a true miracle.
A Birthday Like No Other
Sunday, March 30th, was Miki’s birthday — but it wasn’t just another birthday this year. It was a celebration of life itself. After being discharged last week, he was finally home, surrounded by loved ones, and together, we marked a day unlike any other.
As we gathered to celebrate, the emotions were overwhelming. This was not just a birthday — it was a second chance at life. We laughed, we prayed, and we thanked God for granting our dear friend this incredible blessing.
Miki himself knew that this year was different. No birthday before had carried such deep meaning, and no birthday after would ever be the same. This was the year he survived.
A Testament to Our Nation’s Medical Excellence
This experience not only restored my faith in miracles but also made me deeply proud of our country’s growing medical capabilities. The fact that such a complex cardiac surgery could be performed successfully, right here in Ethiopia, by Ethiopian doctors, is something truly remarkable. The level of expertise, dedication, and compassion I witnessed at Tazma Cardiac Surgery Center is a testament to the incredible potential within our own healthcare system. We don’t always have to look abroad for world-class medical care — it exists right here, in the hands of our own skilled professionals.
Eternal Gratitude
Now, with immense gratitude to the Almighty God, St. Mary, and the humble, brilliant doctors of Tazma, Miki has been given a second chance at life. Their expertise, patience, and unwavering commitment saved his life and renewed our hope.
From the bottom of my heart, thank you to the Tazma team.
Thank you for proving that hope still exists.
