Resilience Amidst Tragedy: The Story of Malak Sameeh Khader
A Young Survivor’s Journey
In the heart of war-torn Gaza, a poignant story of resilience emerges from the rubble. Nine-year-old Malak Sameeh Khader, who lost her family in a devastating attack, is slowly reclaiming her life with the help of a prosthetic leg. This tale not only highlights the personal tragedy of one child but also sheds light on the broader humanitarian crisis affecting countless others in the region.
The Attack and Its Aftermath
Malak’s life changed forever on May 12, 2023, when an Israeli airstrike targeted the Fatima Bint Asad School in Jabalia, where she and her family had sought refuge. The attack claimed the lives of her parents and three brothers, leaving Malak as the sole survivor. According to reports from Al Jazeera, the strike resulted in the deaths of 17 individuals who were sheltering in the school, a tragic reminder of the ongoing violence in Gaza.
Following the attack, Malak suffered severe injuries that necessitated an above-the-knee amputation. She now lives in a tent with her uncle, who struggles to provide for her and his family amid the chaos. The psychological toll of losing her family and witnessing such violence has left Malak anxious and withdrawn, a common reaction among children exposed to trauma.
A New Beginning with Humanity & Inclusion
In late August, Malak received a new prosthetic leg, a significant milestone in her recovery journey. The charity Humanity & Inclusion has been instrumental in providing her with the necessary medical support. At their Nahla Prosthetics and Orthotics Centre in Zawaida, Malak began physiotherapy sessions aimed at strengthening her muscles and helping her adapt to her new limb.
Heba, a Prosthetic and Orthotic Officer at the center, expressed admiration for Malak’s determination. “She was very committed and motivated despite what happened to her,” Heba noted. The team at the center has become a source of support for Malak, helping her not only physically but also emotionally as she navigates her new reality.
The Growing Need for Prosthetic Services
Malak’s story is not unique; the number of amputees in Gaza has surged to approximately 6,000, according to estimates from the Ministry of Health. This alarming statistic underscores the urgent need for medical assistance and rehabilitation services in the region. The Health Cluster for occupied Palestinian territory, led by the World Health Organization, has highlighted the dire conditions faced by many in Gaza, where access to healthcare is severely limited.
Heba explained that the challenges of providing prosthetic limbs are compounded by the ongoing conflict. “Prosthetic limbs in the strip are manufactured with minimal resources available, under complex and dangerous conditions,” she said. The materials required for prosthetics often face delays at borders, as many are classified as “dual-use items” by Israeli authorities.
The Broader Humanitarian Crisis
The situation in Gaza has reached a critical point, with reports indicating that over 64,800 Palestinians have lost their lives since the onset of the current conflict, which began with a Hamas-led attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. The international community has expressed concern over the humanitarian crisis, with some scholars labeling the situation as genocidal. In August, famine was declared in parts of Gaza, further exacerbating the suffering of its residents.
Malak’s uncle shared the family’s struggles, stating, “We relied on food aid and water that reached the schools.” The ongoing conflict has forced many families into makeshift shelters, where basic necessities are scarce. The psychological impact on children like Malak is profound, as they grapple with the loss of loved ones and the uncertainty of their future.
A Glimmer of Hope
Despite the overwhelming challenges, Malak’s spirit shines through. Her determination to walk again is a testament to her resilience. “What I know about Malak from her uncle is that her father was a day laborer who lived in his home in Jabalia,” Heba recounted. “Now, because of the war, displacement, and the destruction of their home, they are forced to live in a tent.”
The charity’s efforts to support Malak and others like her are crucial in providing a semblance of normalcy amid chaos. The Nahla Prosthetics and Orthotics Centre serves as a beacon of hope, offering rehabilitation services to those in need. The mobile rehabilitation teams also extend their reach to displaced individuals in the Deir El Balah area, ensuring that assistance is available to the most vulnerable.
Conclusion: The Need for Continued Support
Malak’s journey is a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable adversity. As she takes her first steps with her new prosthetic leg, she embodies hope for a brighter future. However, the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza necessitates urgent action from the international community to provide unimpeded access to medical care and support for those affected by the conflict.
Humanity & Inclusion continues to appeal for donations to sustain their efforts in Gaza, emphasizing the need for resources to assist children and individuals with disabilities. As the world watches, the plight of Malak and countless others serves as a call to action, urging us to stand in solidarity with those who have endured so much.
