In a gripping narrative that unveils the grim reality of life amidst conflict, a dedicated surgeon from Chicago, Dr. Sam Attar, shares his profound experiences within the war-ravaged region of Gaza. Bearing witness to the indomitable spirit of its people, he narrates poignant tales that underscore the pressing need for immediate aid and compassion.
Dr. Attar’s harrowing journey began as he entered Gaza, where he was confronted by a hunger crisis that had left countless Palestinians starving. Swarmed by desperate individuals begging for food, he realized the gravity of the situation. In Gaza’s hospitals, he encountered patients lying on floors, surrounded by blood and discarded bandages, their cries of pain echoing through the air. The scenes were devastating, leaving an indelible mark on his soul.
One particular story that haunts Dr. Attar involves Jenna, a traumatized young girl wasting away in a hospital bed. He watched as her mother showed him a video of Jenna’s last birthday, starkly contrasting her current fragile state. Another heart-wrenching encounter involved a man whose legs had been amputated, his life shattered by profound loss.
Dr. Attar emphasizes the overwhelming needs of the people he encountered in Gaza, expressing guilt and shame at leaving them behind. The region faces a looming famine, with acute malnutrition affecting 30% of children under two years old, and “catastrophic hunger” gripping 70% of the population in northern Gaza.
As the war enters its seventh month and negotiations for a ceasefire and hostage release stall, the few functioning hospitals in Gaza struggle to cope with the influx of wounded and malnourished patients. Dr. Attar calls for increased access to the north, urging the international community to provide more aid, food, and water.
His profound connection with the people of Gaza fuels Dr. Attar’s determination to return soon. The bonds of friendship, the resilience he witnessed, and the unwavering compassion exhibited by medical professionals in the face of terror and degradation compel him to continue his mission of healing and advocacy.
Dr. Attar’s account powerfully reminds us of the urgent humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza, which demands immediate action and support from the global community to alleviate its people’s suffering.
