Last week, over 1,000 dedicated team members from 19 countries across our global partnership came together for the Global MSI Stars Awards Ceremony, which celebrates our hard-working team who go above and beyond to embody our values. This year, a midwife from MSI Cambodia has been recognized for her work.
Her colleagues describe Sosan Lim as, “One of the best providers, humble and always willing to do any task required of her to support the clinic.” Sosan works hard and receives positive feedback from the clients she sees.
Her team shared an example of a day when her clinic was very short-staffed, and Sosan took on the roles of receptionist, cashier, and others – all to keep services running so our clients don’t miss out. “As soon as she finishes her own work, she will always jump to support other team members in various roles across the clinic.”
Sosan has been nominated to be an MSI Star by all her teammates at MSI Cambodia, clearly demonstrating the impact that she has on all those she works with.
We congratulate Sosan for her much-deserved recognition and for going above and beyond to provide reproductive choice to women in Cambodia.
Saro's story
My name is Meas Saro and I am a mother of two. My oldest is five years old, and my youngest is eight months old. I live with my husband and two children in Svay Rieng, a small province in Cambodia. My husband is a tailor and I work as his assistant at our own business in the market. This is challenging for me, particularly during peak times, as I struggle to manage the business while looking after my youngest son.
Following my first pregnancy, I got an implant contraceptive at the local health centre, but after my second birth, I was so busy with family and my work that I forgot to get another contraceptive device. When my youngest was only seven months, I did a pregnancy test and it came back positive. It was completely unplanned.
After some discussion, my husband and I decided it would be best for me to get an abortion because I needed to focus my time on taking care of our two children. I already knew about the MSI clinic in my town, and I heard it had a good reputation. Still, when I went to get the abortion, I was very nervous because it was my first time.
A safe and caring experience
“When I chose to have the procedure, they provided the service well and put me at ease, telling me at each step what they would be doing next. I was very happy with the services I was provided. “
Before my abortion, I received counselling from the MSI provider, who told me a lot about the procedure. She gave me time to think about my decision and whether it was what I really wanted. When I chose to have the procedure, they provided the service well and put me at ease, telling me at each step what they would be doing next. I was very happy with the services I was provided.
One week later, I returned to the clinic for my scheduled follow-up appointment. I’d also decided to get some new contraception. The provider took the time to explain to me the many contraceptive methods available, including IUDs, implants, pills, and injections. I chose the implant because I’d already had a good experience with it. I felt fine after receiving the implant. I had no unexpected side effects, as the provider had explained everything clearly.
Planning for long-term stability
I’m glad I chose a long-term contraceptive method so I don’t have to worry about taking contraception every day. I feel happy, as I don’t have to worry about unplanned pregnancies any more.
I’ve made these decisions because of my kids. They are still small, and we are still working on our finances, so I’m not ready to have another child.
I have recommended MSI services and implants to several of my friends in the market. If I meet a woman who is in the same situation of unplanned pregnancy, I will share my experience of abortion with her as it’s nothing to be ashamed of. For me, it was the right decision to choose a safe abortion.
