SYRIA: LONG-AWAITED STEPS MARKED BY DEDICATION, DETERMINATION AND HOPE
Houssam’s story:
Houssam is a 10-years old boy living in Al-Hassakeh governorate with his triplet brother and sister, and their mother. As a newborn, he was affected by hypoxia – a lack of oxygen to the brain. This has left him with mobility issues, making him unable to walk while growing up. Five years ago, because of the crisis, the family had to leave their hometown to seek refuge in the city. There, he had tendon surgery that, combined with physiotherapy, was offering him chances to finally walk. But his mother, Zahra, was struggling to secure the means to cover the medical expenses as the only breadwinner for the family since her husband passed away. They found relief in the free health services provided by the Al Sanabel healthcare center, a center supported by Action Against Hunger (ACF) and funded by SIDA.
Al Sanabel healthcare center offers physiotherapy, nutrition and psychosocial services. ACF has been supporting (the continuation of) its crucial services with the financial support of professionals at the center. Additionally, ACF conducted nutrition training for the entire team working there. Furthermore, we have provided physiotherapy equipment and all other necessary tools for malnutrition screening.
Houssam’s daily visits to the health center have been a pilar to his healing journey. Today, Houssam can walk with a walker, leaning on walls, or with the help of his family. A remarkable advancement in his condition. A year ago, he was even able to join school, while he previously received private tutoring at home due to his inability to attend. Now, with the support of his siblings, he navigates school life in third grade after successfully passing the previous year.
Zahra admires the dedication of the healthcare professionals at the center. She acknowledges the tireless efforts of the doctors, particularly the one overseeing Houssam's case, whose consistent follow-up has been instrumental in his progress.
“Houssam's improved mobility has brought him newfound comfort, as every time he moves freely, it brings him immense happiness and hope. Now, he actively participates in daily activities, such as going to the grocery store with his siblings, a task that fills him with delight,” said Zahra.
“I extend my deepest gratitude to everyone involved in the healthcare center, to those who have walked alongside us on this difficult journey. Within Al Sanabel healthcare center, we found not just healing but a family,” she concluded.
Yasmin’s story:
Yasmin, a four-and-a-half-year-old girl, was born prematurely on the first day of the eighth month, resulting in a paralysis in her brain. "Doctors told me that there was no hope for Yasmin to walk; it was impossible for her case. She wouldn’t be able to walk, crawl, or even sit," explained Saadyeh, Yasmin’s mother.
"We can’t afford Yasmin’s treatment, but I’ve never lost hope," said Saadyeh. "I brought Yasmin to Al Sanabel Health Center after hearing about their success in treating cases like hers. We visited the clinic consistently for four years, missing only weekends. Living in the village didn't stop us from coming for treatment, especially as I saw Yasmin improving."
Yasmin’s family used to live in a village, but eight months ago they moved to the city in search of better job opportunities. Yasmin’s father found work as a daily laborer, but his meager income barely covers their needs. Yasmin has been receiving treatment at the clinic since she was eight months old, and recently her condition improved remarkably thanks to physiotherapy. "She’s now able to walk, thank God! She’s been walking for four months. I can’t even describe my feelings the first time I saw her take her first steps. I could sense her joy in her eyes," said Saadyeh.
"Seeing her play with her siblings fills me with delight. Watching the four of them walking and playing together is a dream come true. I’m incredibly grateful and appreciate all the efforts that led to my little daughter’s recovery," Saadyeh concluded.
