The Legacy of Mathiwos and the
Foundation of MWECS in Ethiopia
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“Our society formed by Mathiwos’s family & founders who managed to transform the tragedy faced by the loss of Mathiwos who lost his battle with cancer into opportunity in the living room of Mathiwos family residence, today implement seven projects, one on childhood cancer, one on breast cancer, three on tobacco, one on lung cancer & one on non-communicable diseases & injury. . .
MATHIWOS,
The third and youngest son of his parents Mr. WonduBekele and Mrs. Amsale Beyene, was born on June 17, 1999 (Sene 9,1991 Ethiopian Calendar) in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Until he celebrated his second birthday, he was very healthy, energetic and his growth was corresponding to his age.
A few days after celebrating his second birthday, he un-expectedly became very ill, and after clinical investigation he was diagnosed with ALL-type Leukemia.
He had been under treatment at Tikur Anbessa/Black Lion/ Hospital for 26 months. Even though there is no conducive environment for cancer treatment, the staff of Medical Faculty of Addis Ababa University, tried everything at their disposal to save his life.
Due to lack of cancer medicines here in Ethiopia his family was forced to import from overseas almost all the very expensive medicines that were recommended by his doctors.
Mathiwos, the third and youngest son of his parents Mr. WonduBekele and Mrs. Amsale Beyene, was born on June 17, 1999 (Sene 9,1991 Ethiopian Calendar) in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Until he celebrated his second birthday, he was very healthy, energetic and his growth was corresponding to his age.
A few days after celebrating his second birthday, he un-expectedly became very ill, and after clinical investigation he was diagnosed with ALL-type Leukemia.
Focus Areas
Health system strenghening
The Mathiwos Wondu – YeEthiopia Cancer Society has initiated a comprehensive health system strengthening project that aims to enhance the overall quality and accessibility of cancer care in Ethiopia. Through this focus area, the organization is working towards building capacity within the healthcare system by providing training for healthcare professionals, improving infrastructure and equipment in cancer treatment facilities, and increasing public awareness about cancer prevention and early detection. By collaborating with government agencies, hospitals, and other stakeholders, the organization is striving to create a more sustainable and effective healthcare system that can better address the growing burden of cancer in the country.
PEN -Plus and MLCCP are some of the projects implemented in this focus area.
NCDs & Risk factor
The Mathiwos Wondu – YeEthiopia Cancer Society has identified Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and their associated risk factors as a key focus area in its mission to improve the overall health outcomes of the Ethiopian population. Through targeted interventions and public health campaigns, the organization is working to raise awareness about the impact of NCDs such as cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases, as well as the risk factors that contribute to their development, including unhealthy diet, physical inactivity, tobacco use, and alcohol consumption. By advocating for policy changes, implementing preventive measures, and promoting healthy lifestyle choices, the organization aims to reduce the prevalence of NCDs and improve the overall health and well-being of individuals across the country. This focus area highlights the organization’s commitment to addressing the growing burden of NCDs and implementing holistic approaches to prevent and control these diseases in Ethiopia.
VISION | MISSION
Seeing a Society fully aware of cancer.
Actively engage in control of pediatric and women cancer and their risk factors.
Total Number of Patients
Pediatric Cancer Patients
Breast Cancer Patients
Cervical Cancer Patients
Survivor Stories: Triumph and Hope
Ethiopian Multi-partners Collaboration to tackle lung Cancer
The lung cancer project initiated by Mathiwos Wondu – YeEthiopia Cancer Society in collaboration with five organizations has been a remarkable success story in improving access to care and treatment for lung cancer patients in Ethiopia. Despite the challenges outlined in the overview regarding late-stage presentations and lack of diagnostic facilities, the project has made significant strides in addressing these issues. Through renovations, procurement of state-of-the-art equipment, and training initiatives, the project has equipped healthcare professionals with the necessary skills and resources to provide quality care for lung cancer patients. The implementation of a screening and management training manual, along with the provision of chemo services, has led to the screening of over 16,000 individuals, with 38 diagnoses and 34 patients receiving treatment. Additionally, the project has enhanced the capacity of 44 health facilities to provide lung cancer care and support services, ultimately reaching a total of 186,862 people with awareness initiatives. This collaborative effort has not only improved the outcomes and survival rates of lung cancer patients but has also contributed to strengthening the overall health system for cancer treatment and control in the country.
Screening Individual
Suspected Individual
Diagnosed With Lung Cancer
Received Treatment
Surviving Blood Cancer: Alehegn Bitew's Heartening Journey of Hope and Healing with MWECS's Support
Nine years ago, Alehegn Bitew was diagnosed with blood cancer after discovering a small lump on his thigh. As he began treatment at Tikur Anbessa Hospital, Alehegn and his father faced financial difficulties due to the cost of medical care and the impact of his father’s absence on the family’s farming livelihood. With limited resources and diminishing hope of recovery, they were referred to the society’s psychosocial center for support. Through the center, they received shelter, food, psychosocial assistance, and full coverage of medical expenses, enabling Alehegn to continue his treatment without financial burden. Despite challenges such as missed appointments due to family misconceptions about his health status, the society provided transportation and emotional support, ensuring Alehegn’s continuity of care. Now 21 years old, Alehegn is in good health, receiving checkups every six months and no longer requiring medication. Thanks to the society’s comprehensive support, his treatment was sustained, and his family’s financial stability was preserved.
Surviving Breast Cancer: Senait Werku's Journey to Recovery with Support from Mathiwos Wondu-YeEthiopia Cancer Society
Senait Werku, a mother of two residing in Addis Ababa, faced a challenging diagnosis six years ago when she discovered a lump on her breast, later confirmed to be breast cancer. Following surgery at Tikur Anbessa Hospital, she was advised to undergo chemotherapy and medications. However, the unavailability and cost of these treatments made it impossible for her to continue. In a pivotal moment, Tikur Anbessa Hospital referred Senait to the Mathiwos Wondu-YeEthiopia Cancer Society. At the society’s psychosocial center, Senait received comprehensive support, with her medical expenses, laboratory tests, diagnostics, and treatment fully covered, in addition to psychological assistance. Today, Senait has fully recovered and is able to care for her children without the burden of worrying about her health, thanks to the assistance and care provided by Mathiwos Wondu.
Tariku Who Is A Childhood Cancer Survivor
Tariku Taye, a 7-year-old boy from Bedele town in the Oromia region, was faced with a daunting diagnosis of leukemia after experiencing severe fatigue. Initially misdiagnosed with anemia, Tariku’s condition worsened, leading to his referral to Tikur Anbessa Hospital where cancer was identified. Despite his parents’ efforts, their economic struggles forced them to discontinue Tariku’s treatment, prompting a referral to the Mathiwos Wondu-YeEthiopia Cancer Society (MWECS) for support. At the society’s psychosocial center, Tariku and his father received much-needed assistance, including shelter, food, psychosocial support, and full coverage of medical expenses. With the society’s support, Tariku was able to continue his treatment and pursue his education uninterrupted, excelling academically. Now 16 years old, Tariku maintains good health with regular checkups, a testament to the invaluable psychosocial support he received at MWECS, which played a vital role in his survival and well-being.
Latest Update
The 20th anniversary of the Mathiwos Wondu – YeEthiopia Cancer Society was celebrated
The 20th anniversary of the Mathiwos Wondu - YeEthiopia Cancer Society was celebrated in the presence of invited journalists,members,patients and their families by giving press release and briefing on society’ major achievements and challenges. Mr. Wondu Bekele one of...
Press Release
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Mathiwos Wondu ye -Ethiopian Cancer Society successfully conducted its 18th Regular General Assembly Meeting
Mathiwos Wondu ye -Ethiopian Cancer Society successfully conducted its 18th regular general assembly meeting. Dr. Kunuz Abdalla, Chairman of the General assembly of the Matthiwos Wondu-YeEthiopia Cancer Society, testified the society, which is celebrating its 20th...
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