Gaza Child Overcomes Loss of Limbs and Family to Rebuild His Life Abroad – Sky Bulletin

In New York, far from his original home in Gaza, young Omar Abu Kuwaik faces a world entirely new to him. At only 4 years of age, he survived an Israeli airstrike that cost him his arm, along with the lives of his parents and sister. Yet, Omar is considered one of the fortunate ones.

Omar’s passage from the war-stricken Gaza to the United States was made possible through the kind-hearted efforts of both relatives and benevolent strangers. In the United States, Omar received medical care and was fitted with a prosthetic arm. He now spends his days in a New York City house managed by a medical charity, with his aunt, Maha Abu Kuwaik, by his side.

For Maha Abu Kuwaik, agreeing to accompany and care for Omar meant making the heart-wrenching decision to leave her own spouse and children behind in Gaza, unsure if they would ever reunite. The daily struggle and despair facing those trapped in Gaza hang over them like a dark cloud, as they ponder their uncertain future.

Omar’s aunt has embraced him as her fourth child, and while the transition has been challenging, the love shared between them remains a beacon of hope. Omar, once a bright and sociable child, now frequently grapples with the trauma of his experiences, often becoming withdrawn and tearful. Despite this, he harbors dreams of one day becoming a pilot to help transport people to new places.

The Global Medical Relief Fund, an organization in Staten Island, has supported hundreds of children like Omar over the years, providing medical care post-tragedy. Elissa Montanti, the founder, considers each child part of her “global family,” ensuring they receive prosthetics as they grow. The non-profit organization covers all expenses beyond the medical treatments, which are primarily donated by Shriners Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.

Gaza has been through unspeakable devastation, with thousands killed or wounded and the majority of its buildings damaged or destroyed. Despite these obstacles, Omar and his aunt were able to leave Gaza with renewed passports and the assistance of humanitarian organizations, through a laborious process involving coordination with multiple governments.

After undergoing treatment at Shriners Children’s Hospital in Philadelphia, including skin graft surgery for severe burns, Omar began learning to use his new prosthetic arm with the help of occupational therapists.

Omar and his aunt temporarily returned to Egypt, awaiting what comes next, carrying the pain of loved ones left behind in dire situations. With Gaza in turmoil, the future remains uncertain, and Maha Abu Kuwaik cannot foresee returning to what was once home.

FAQs About Omar Abu Kuwaik’s Journey

1. How did Omar Abu Kuwaik come to be in the USA?

   Omar was brought to the USA for medical treatment through the combined efforts of his family, the Global Medical Relief Fund, Rahma Worldwide, and governmental agencies.

2. What organization is providing care for Omar?

   The Global Medical Relief Fund has taken Omar into its care, providing housing and coordinating his medical treatment, while Shriners Children’s Hospital is providing the medical care itself.

3. Can Omar go back to Gaza?

   Omar’s return to Gaza is uncertain due to the ongoing conflict and his medical needs. His aunt expresses doubt about returning given the lack of a future for Omar in Gaza currently.

Conclusion

Omar Abu Kuwaik’s ordeal exemplifies the hardships suffered by countless children in conflict zones. His ability to receive medical treatment and begin a new life in the United States highlights the importance of global humanitarian efforts. While the future for Omar and his aunt remains uncertain, the care they have received offers a glimpse of hope amidst unimaginable loss and adversity. Their story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the critical nature of international aid and support for those affected by war.