SACRAMENTO, Calif. — A 17-year-old boy from Gaza arrived at Sacramento International Airport Monday to receive medical care at Shriners Children’s Northern California.
Mohammed, whose leg was severely injured in a missile strike, is among a small group of children evacuated from the war-torn region for treatment in the United States.
Metal rods currently stabilize Mohammed’s leg, but he will require a full knee replacement. He has been unable to walk since the injury.
“As strange as it may sound, Mohammed is one of the lucky ones. Many children in Gaza have lost limbs or suffered multiple amputations,” said Suheir Ibrahim, U.S. operations manager for the Palestine Children’s Relief Fund (PCRF), the organization coordinating his care.
Shriners Children’s Northern California is one of several hospitals in the United States working with the PCRF to treat eight young evacuees from Gaza.
While Ibrahim expressed gratitude for the assistance these children have received, she acknowledged the enormity of the challenges ahead.
“What we’re doing for Gaza is just a drop in the bucket,” she said. “There are many restrictions and roadblocks, but we are thankful for the successes we’ve had so far.”
The humanitarian crisis in Gaza, intensified by the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, has displaced millions and left tens of thousands dead or wounded.
Ibrahim emphasized the critical need for expanded efforts to assist the region’s most vulnerable residents.
Once his treatment is complete, Mohammed will return to Gaza, where much of his home remains in ruins.
Despite the uncertainty of his future, Ibrahim said he and the other children treated through the program are deeply grateful for the opportunity to heal.
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