FAME Africa

FAME Africa Advancing patient-centered care in rural Africa. Patient names are changed, explicit consent granted. Dr. Artress is an American physician. Kilimanjaro.

The Foundation for African Medicine & Education is a non-profit corporation registered in the United States. It was created to improve the quality of medical care in East Africa. FAME endeavors to help bridge the gap between a critically under-resourced healthcare system and first-world medicine. FAME is currently focused on improving the quality and accessibility of medical care in Tanzania and making a difference in the day-to-day lives of the Tanzanian people. He has traveled extensively and participated in medical relief projects around the globe. His wife, Susan, is trained in counseling and educational psychology and has worked for many years in school-based mental health and prevention. Frank and Susan have lived and worked in Tanzania since 2003and currently reside in Karatu, Tanzania. They coordinate and oversee the day-to-day operations of all FAME projects. Certain places on the planet can capture a person's heart and alter the direction of one's life. For us, Tanzania is such a place. At the start of the new millenium we found ourselves at a crossroads and began to experience a shift in how we wanted to spend the second half of our lives. For years, we had talked about climbing Mt. Finally in July of 2002, we began our ascent of the highest peak in Africa. At the time, we could not have known Frank would nearly die atop that mountain, nor how those critical moments would shape the rest of our lives. The perseverance, generosity, and resourcefulness of our guide and his crew awakened us to the resilience of the human spirit - that place inside each of us where grace and strength reside. After several months back in the U.S., we decided to return to Tanzania, this time to contribute back to a people whose voice is rarely heard in the rest of the world, a people who have few opportunities to share their wisdom, their strength, and their dreams with the rest of us. From this place, the Foundation for African Medicine and Education was born. Board of Directors

Frank Artress, Co-Founder & President
Susan Gustafson, Co-Founder & Vice-President
Jeanne Artress, Secretary/Treasurer
Graham Pierce, Director
Jack Paddon, Director
Nancy Paddon, Director

A Testament of Gratitude: From Mobile Clinics to a Hospital CampusAt 64 years old, Mohammed recently underwent a success...
12/29/2025

A Testament of Gratitude:

From Mobile Clinics to a Hospital Campus

At 64 years old, Mohammed recently underwent a successful surgical procedure at FAME; another milestone in a relationship that stretches back decades. He is not a newcomer to FAME hospital, but someone whose history with FAME began long before the campus existed, in the early days when Dr. Frank and the then much smaller FAME team would conduct mobile clinics in the community.

"I vividly recall when Dr. Frank embarked on his mission here," Mohammed recalled. "I've had the privilege of witnessing the mission evolve from these modest beginnings to the thriving hospital campus it is today," he added, his eyes reflecting a deep sense of admiration. For him, FAME's impact on the rural community in Northern Tanzania is simple and unmistakable: "To be honest, FAME has grown to become an indispensable health facility in our community."

What has stayed with Mohammed most over the years is not just that care is available at FAME, but how it is delivered. He spoke of treatment that feels within reach, of doctors, nurses and staff who lead with love and compassion and of a hospital that treats patients with dignity. He noted the care taken to follow patients closely, to provide medications on time and to offer counseling that supports not only physical healing, but also emotional well-being. The cleanliness of FAME hospital and its peaceful environment, he said, foster a sense of confidence and trust making FAME a place where patient-centered care is not just an idea, but a daily practice that truly supports patient recovery.

Before concluding, Mohammed offered his heartfelt thanks to “This hospital has become a beacon of hope for our community, and for many beyond it,” he said. He also expressed deep appreciation for the volunteers who have shared their time and expertise, noting that their presence reflects a spirit of service that patients feel and remember. Mentioning a recent neurology clinic led by Dr. Michael Rubenstein, Mohammed spoke with sincerity about the compassion that underpins FAME’s work. His gratitude was clear, not just for what FAME has built, but for the care and commitment that continue to define it.

Before he finished, Mohammed had one final thing to say. He expressed his heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Frank and Susan for the vision that brought FAME to Karatu. "This hospital has been a beacon of hope for our community and those beyond," he said. He also extended his appreciation to the volunteers who have dedicated their time and expertise to serving the community. "Their heart-driven mission is a testament to the power of compassion and kindness," Mohammed noted, specifically mentioning a recent neurology clinic led by Dr. Michael Rubenstein from the University of Pennsylvania. Mohammed's words were filled with sincerity and admiration, not just for what FAME has built, but for FAME's unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional care to those in need.

Morning Rounds with Heart ❤️Each morning at FAME begins with a purpose-driven routine that sets the tone for healing and...
12/26/2025

Morning Rounds with Heart ❤️

Each morning at FAME begins with a purpose-driven routine that sets the tone for healing and hope. Our doctors, nurses and social workers move from bed to bed, embarking on morning rounds that are more than just a routine check-in: they are a symphony of care.

Morning rounds are not just clinical; they are where trust is built. Every interaction is a chance to listen, to comfort and to heal. From the gentle touch of a nurse's hand to the reassuring words of a doctor, every moment counts 💫 In a busy hospital, these moments create calm.

During this reflective time of year, we are grateful for the FAME team members who show up every day with skill, compassion and a deep commitment to their patients. It isn’t just about what they do, it’s about how they care.

Please join us in celebrating the tireless efforts of our healthcare heroes!

Dear Friend of FAME,This holiday season, joy is all around us in Tanzania because of you. Your generosity and compassion...
12/25/2025

Dear Friend of FAME,

This holiday season, joy is all around us in Tanzania because of you. Your generosity and compassion continue to bring hope and healing to families who need it most. Because of your support, parents can focus on their children’s recovery, caregivers can do their work with confidence and moments of uncertainty are met with care and dignity.

As families gather, children smile and communities come together, your impact is felt in countless quiet but meaningful ways across our hospital and beyond. You are a part of every life touched.

From all of us at FAME, may your holidays be filled with the same joy, love and light you’ve shared with so many others.

Wrapped in red, big smiling cheeks and already stealing hearts, this sweet baby is a beautiful reminder of why maternal ...
12/21/2025

Wrapped in red, big smiling cheeks and already stealing hearts, this sweet baby is a beautiful reminder of why maternal and newborn care matters 👶🏽💕 This year FAME’s Maternity Center is on track to deliver more than 1,300 babies marking a new milestone in our growth.

Because of your support, mothers in our rural community are able to access safe, compassionate Reproductive and Child Health services: from prenatal visits and skilled deliveries to postnatal care that helps babies like this little guy thrive. Every healthy birth represents a mother supported, a family strengthened and a future protected ❤️ This is what your generosity looks like: A strong baby. A cared-for mother. A hopeful beginning.

Thank you for helping families raise healthy, happy babies who will grow up to shape a sustainable future 🌎

🎉 Celebrating a Legacy of Service 🎉As the year comes to a close, we are proud to celebrate an incredible milestone at FA...
12/19/2025

🎉 Celebrating a Legacy of Service 🎉

As the year comes to a close, we are proud to celebrate an incredible milestone at FAME: the retirement of three extraordinary members of our family. It is not about saying goodbye, but about honoring decades of dedication, commitment and impact. 💛

Please join us in celebrating Digna Kiwia / Mama Mshana (17 years), John Tsea (17 years) and Yustina Msuya (8 years). Through your tireless efforts, expertise and passion, you have made a difference in lives of countless patients, families and colleagues. Your work has left a lasting legacy that will continue to be felt for years to come. We are so grateful for everything you have given to this community.

“We don’t cry because it’s over; we smile because it happened.”

🌟 Wishing you a joyful, well-earned retirement filled with joy, love and adventure. You will always be part of the FAME family.

Every Patient is FamilyI've known FAME for almost 7 years now, and what we love about coming here is the warm reception ...
12/16/2025

Every Patient is Family

I've known FAME for almost 7 years now, and what we love about coming here is the warm reception and timely service. Dr. Frank and his team always make us feel welcome and at ease. The honesty we find here is also a breath of fresh air - if something can be treated, they're upfront about it, and if not, they guide us on where to go next. No beating around the bush or wasting time! 🙏

This time around, my 6-year-old child had been struggling with chronic tonsils, but thanks to the expert care at FAME, he's undergone a successful surgery and we're thrilled to be heading home! ❤️ The peace of mind and relief we feel are indescribable. Thank you, FAME, for your dedication to providing exceptional care to our family!

12/12/2025

Last week, we celebrated at FAME 🌍.

We’re so grateful to every volunteer who shares their time, skills, and energy with our team and community. Education is at the heart of everything we do, and our volunteer program is a key part of building the skills and capacity of the clinicians who will carry this work forward for decades. Simply put, we couldn’t do what we do for our patients without the support of our volunteers. 💛

We’re also excited to share a new video featuring several volunteers from this fall—many first-timers—reflecting on their experiences and the highlights of their time at FAME. Their voices say it best. 📹

As part of our ongoing work in rural Tanzania, our partnership with The Meleka Foundation helps ensure that members of t...
12/11/2025

As part of our ongoing work in rural Tanzania, our partnership with The Meleka Foundation helps ensure that members of the Hadzabe community can reach medical care when they need it. This partnership helps us tackle geographical barriers to deliver health services to an indigenous and historically hard to reach population.

Recently, one community member began experiencing symptoms that required attention. With support from Meleka, he was brought to FAME, where our team was able to evaluate his condition, provide treatment, and make sure he was well enough to return home. Moments like these remind us why access matters: when care is reachable, small concerns don’t become critical emergencies.

Working alongside our partners, we remain committed to making that access a reality for every community we serve, no matter how remote.

12/08/2025

Strengthen Skills. Strengthen Care. 🌍💚FAME’s team is transforming healthcare in rural Tanzania every day. This Giving Tu...
12/02/2025

Strengthen Skills. Strengthen Care. 🌍💚

FAME’s team is transforming healthcare in rural Tanzania every day. This Giving Tuesday comes at a time of growing demand and limited resources. Your support makes it possible for our team to keep learning, growing and providing the highest-quality care. 💛

At FAME, education is at the heart of everything we do, from mentoring doctors through new procedures to supporting nurses pursuing advanced training.

Your gift fuels the skills and knowledge that save lives every single day. ✨

Today, we’re asking you to invest in the clinicians who are shaping the future of healthcare in Tanzania. Every clinician empowered is a lifeline, and every skill gained strengthens families and communities across the region. 💚

🙏 Make a gift today to support FAME’s dedicated team through the link below:
https://secure.qgiv.com/for/foundationforafricanmedicineeducation

  🍂This Thanksgiving, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude for your unwavering support and care throughout the yea...
11/27/2025

🍂

This Thanksgiving, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude for your unwavering support and care throughout the year. Your belief in FAME makes everything we do possible. You help strengthen our team, provide compassionate care and transform lives. 🌍❤️

This year, our Thanksgiving story shares the inspiring journey of Dr. Lingato, whose life brought him from herding cattle in the Ngorongoro Crater to performing complex surgeries at FAME. His story is just one of hundreds at FAME that shows what’s possible when opportunity, education and generosity come together.

Visit this link https://mailchi.mp/fameafrica/happythanksgiving2025 to read his story, and if you are not yet subscribed to our E-News, sign up so you never miss a story that shows the impact of your support.

Happy Thanksgiving from the FAME family to yours! 💛 May your day be filled with love, laughter, and gratitude.

We are delighted to celebrate with mom and dad on the arrival of their precious newborn! Their baby’s arrival is a momen...
11/21/2025

We are delighted to celebrate with mom and dad on the arrival of their precious newborn! Their baby’s arrival is a moment they have held in their hearts for a long time, and now their joy could not be brighter.

FAME has been proud to walk alongside them throughout this journey. Our Reproductive and Child Health & Maternity Center teams offered care, reassurance and guidance at every stage, and we are grateful to have played a small part in welcoming their new baby.

Congratulations to the family! ❤️

🌟

Address

4553 Crimsonwood Drive
Redding, CA
96001

Website

https://fameafrica.org/journal

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