Resilient Gazan Boy Takes First Steps Towards Recovery in Jordan

Rami Qattoush, a nine-year-old boy from Gaza, shows remarkable strength as he takes tentative steps following life-saving surgery in Jordan after enduring severe injuries from an Israeli airstrike. His journey underscores the dire healthcare challenges faced by many Gazan children, with Rami currently receiving multidisciplinary care while longing to reunite with his family in Gaza.

Rami Qattoush, a nine-year-old boy from Gaza, has made significant strides in his recovery after undergoing reconstructive surgery in Jordan. His mother expressed immense pride as he successfully kicked a football for the first time since his injury. Rami's journey to this moment has been fraught with pain and trauma, stemming from a devastating airstrike that claimed the life of his 12-year-old brother, Mustafa, and left him and his younger brother, Abdul Salam, with serious injuries.

Had his legs been amputated, as doctors in Gaza suggested, Rami might not have had the opportunity to recover the way he has. Despite the traumatic circumstances and the pain he still experiences, including needing frequent breaks to rest, Rami’s determination shines through. He dreams of playing football like his idol, Cristiano Ronaldo.

The UN reports a staggering number of children who have suffered due to the conflict between Israel and Hamas, with at least 14,500 children reportedly killed and countless others injured. Medical evacuations from Gaza have been critical, particularly as local hospitals struggle to operate at minimal capacity amidst a dire shortage of medical supplies. The World Health Organization noted that approximately 30,000 Gazans bear life-altering injuries needing long-term rehabilitation.

After months of discomfort and unsuccessful treatments in Gaza, Rami and his mother were granted rare permission to travel to Jordan for specialized medical care at a facility run by Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF). Here, Rami received psychological support and participated in educational activities while undergoing physical therapy to learn how to walk again, driven by his desire to reunite with his family and return home.

Hospital staff described Rami as highly motivated, noting the strong bond he has developed with his physiotherapist, Zaid Alqaisi. Rami's longing to return to Gaza, coupled with the profound loss of his brother, remains a heavy emotional burden. In the midst of his struggles, he continues to show resilience and hope, demonstrated during video calls with his family, where he proudly shows off his progress.

As Rami's brother Abdul Salam has also been granted permission to leave Gaza for treatment, the family anticipates a hopeful reunion, which will further strengthen their resolve in the face of adversity. The ongoing challenges of recovery and the broader impact of the conflict highlight the need for sustained support and rehabilitation services for all affected children.