Gaza Woman Survives Blast, Faces Unrecognizable Future

Najwa Abu Atiwi, 42, awoke from a coma on October 11, 2024, following an Israeli air strike in Gaza's Nuseirat camp. She discovered she had lost an eye and her daughter, Hajar, who was days from her sixth birthday. Najwa's face sustained severe fractures, requiring metal plates and meshes, and impacting her ability to eat and speak normally. She continues to require specialized treatment unavailable within Gaza, a consequence of the ongoing conflict and blockade.

Dr. Ayman Saidam, an oculoplastic surgeon, highlighted the complexity of Najwa's injuries, noting that facial reconstruction is paramount before cosmetic procedures. He treated numerous severe injuries during the conflict, often hampered by shortages of medical supplies, which are exacerbated by Israeli restrictions. Such essential materials, including screws and eye drops, delay critical stages of treatment.

The psychological toll on survivors like Najwa is immense. Psychologist Dr. Hassan Abu Shawish notes that simultaneous trauma—physical injury, loss of a loved one, and disfigurement—can lead to PTSD, anxiety, and depression. Alongside reconstructive surgeries, psychological support is vital for recovery, helping patients adapt and rebuild confidence.

Najwa is awaiting permission to leave Gaza for treatment abroad, a common situation for thousands injured in the war. The World Health Organization reports that a quarter of injuries in Gaza are life-changing, requiring long-term rehabilitation. Najwa strives to reclaim her life, seeking to regain her speech, ability to eat, and sense of self amidst the profound loss and physical challenges.