Dr. Rita Schiffer is a doctor, missionary, and since 1997 the director of the Attat Hospital in Ethiopia. As a specialist in gynecology, she is responsible for surgical gynecology as well as emergency surgical care in one of the poorest regions of the country – an area where medical assistance is often a matter of life and death.

Her story shows how a single person can sustainably change the lives of many. On the occasion of International Women’s Day, we spoke with Dr. Schiffer about her life, her motivation, and her experiences.

What inspired you to dedicate your life in Ethiopia to serving the poor?

The realization of how rich and fortunate I am simply because I was born in Europe. I want to use this privilege for others.

Was there a decisive moment that shaped your calling?

There was no single moment that shaped my calling, but rather the shock and frustration about the injustice in our world. I want my life to be a response to that and to contribute my small part.

As a woman and a surgeon in a often challenging environment: what were the greatest challenges?

Accepting that some therapeutic options that would be possible in Europe cannot be realized here.

Which experiences in your work have influenced you the most?

Seeing how most people here deal with the ups and downs of life – with perseverance, trust in God their Creator, gratitude, and strong relationships with others.

What can people in Europe learn from your commitment – about humanity, courage, or solidarity?

It is an invitation to recognize all the gifts that have been given to us – or perhaps to search for them – and, with this potential and with all the limits that exist for each of us, to shape life together with others in gratitude.

What message would you like to give to women and young people today?

Nothing in life is self-evident. Happiness is to actively shape life with and for others in the present. You and your life are important for our world, even if you sometimes feel small.

What truly makes a woman strong today?

Saying “yes” to oneself with all one’s gifts and limitations, and giving up the illusion that everything in life will run smoothly. It is the challenges that help us grow.

Is there a particular story that has stayed with you?

My assistant in the hospital outpatient clinic is a trained midwife. For a change, she wanted to work in the delivery ward and applied for a transfer. The administration rejected her request. It was therefore understandable that she came to work the next morning with tearful eyes and in a bad mood. Our work together that morning was somewhat tense, but I could accept that. After the lunch break, however, she returned surprisingly cheerful and friendly. Curious, I asked what had happened during the break. She replied: “I realized that I have many good things in my life – a husband and children, a home, work, and good health. Not all wishes in life are fulfilled, for anyone.” With that, the matter was settled – and I had learned a lot.