In October 2024, the UN described Gaza as being “home to the largest cohort of child amputees in modern history”. As of April, the UN also reported that 4,500 people have been made amputees due to the current conflict, adding to the 2,000 existing cases in Gaza.
These people, hundreds of them children, have faced life changing injuries with little medical support as the medical system in Gaza has nearly collapsed. Two-thirds of healthcare facilities have either been destroyed or rendered non-functional. Access to essential medical supplies, including prosthetics, remains severely restricted, further exacerbating the suffering of the affected population.
In response, Caritas Jerusalem is working in collaboration with the Artificial Limbs and Polio Center to support those affected by the loss of limbs, as part of a program supported by Caritas Australia’s Gaza Emergency Appeal. The program is working to provide artificial limbs to 140 individuals, most of whom are children, who have tragically lost their limbs to the ongoing conflict.
“These artificial limbs are not just a physical support but also a symbol of resilience. For many children, receiving a prosthetic limb offers hope for a better future, helping them to regain mobility and independence in the face of overwhelming adversity” said Caritas Jerusalem.
Riham, a woman who participated in the program, said “I endured a whole year of suffering. I couldn’t go anywhere, couldn’t walk. Even going to the bathroom was a struggle, I would stumble and fall.”
Speaking of the impact of the program she explained, “Little by little, they improved my mental state. I was like a mad woman, spending most of my days crying over my condition, and my inability to even get myself a drink of water. When I wore the prosthetic limb, I felt like I could finally stand without holding onto anything. I felt relieved and my mental state improved, thank God. As long as there is a limb and the ability to walk, a person can do anything.”
Riham who received an artificial limb as part of the program. Photo credit: Caritas Jerusalem.
Khamees who received an artificial limb as part of the program. Photo credit: Caritas Jerusalem.
Khamees, a youth who participated in the program, received an artificial limb after losing his left leg. He said of being entered into the program, “I was surprised and happy, I went home overjoyed and slept feeling truly happy.”
Khamees left us with these inspiring words, “One must be strong, have high spirits. Be strong and never give up. Thank you, Caritas Jerusalem. I hope you continue to help those in need of prosthetic limbs, just as you helped me walk again.”
Specialists assist a man and a young boy as they relearn how to walk with their artificial legs. Photo credit: Caritas Jerusalem.
A young boy takes a break while working with a specialist on physio to support him walking with an artificial limb. Photo credit: Caritas Jerusalem.
