Shaima

I'm Shaimaa from Gaza, 32 years old, a mother of four children who have suffered fear, displacement, and homelessness. Can you imagine? They are living through a horrific war in which they bear no responsibility. Yet, the war in Gaza has stolen their beauty and their childhood, burdening them with anxieties far beyond their years. They even search for water as if they have aged decades.

I am now the sole provider for the family because my husband, Ibrahim, who was always determined to succeed and who was my inspiration and main source of strength, was seriously injured in his foot during the war and lost his passion for everything, even his medical care. He needs specialized treatment for his foot, and without it, he suffers from severe pain, fatigue, and exhaustion. What did he do to deserve this?

We lived in peace despite all the hardships, but in a moment, we lost a great deal of effort. We struggled and rebuilt ourselves from nothing, until God provided for us, but I never imagined that our struggle and effort would vanish and never return. Our home, with all its beauty and warm memories, is buried under the rubble. I simply grieve for the memories.

As for me, I won't speak about myself because everything that has happened saddens and pains me. But to you, people of compassion, I place my hope in you to save my family. My family and I are not safe from this war. I pray to God to help us escape this death, so that we can salvage what remains of us. Please help us buy basic necessities and leave Gaza so that my husband can receive treatment for his foot – the cost of leaving is $5,000 per person. Help us live a dignified life. My family is the most precious thing in my life, and I thank every donor for their humanity.