The Syrian war has been raging for almost a decade now, leaving behind a trail of destruction and devastation. While the loss of lives and displacement of millions have been widely reported, there is another aspect of this war that often goes unnoticed – the countless Syrians who have been left with devastating injuries.
From limb amputations and burns to the loss of sensory functions, these injuries have not only physically impacted the lives of these individuals, but also had a profound effect on their mental and emotional well-being. And to make matters worse, they are often left to deal with these challenges on their own, with limited attention and support from civil society organizations.
One such individual is Salam al-Hassan, a 43-year-old woman from Saraqib, a town located south of Idlib city. Salam lost both her legs in a bombing incident during the war. She was out shopping for groceries when the bomb hit, leaving her trapped under the rubble for hours before she was rescued. By the time she reached the hospital, it was too late to save her legs.
Salam’s life changed in an instant. From being an active and independent woman, she was now confined to a wheelchair, dependent on others for even the most basic tasks. The physical pain and trauma of losing her legs were compounded by the emotional toll of adjusting to her new reality.
But Salam is not alone in her struggles. There are thousands of Syrians like her who have been left with life-altering injuries due to the war. And while the physical wounds may heal, the emotional scars remain, often leading to depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Unfortunately, the attention and support these individuals receive from civil society organizations are limited. With the ongoing conflict and the constant influx of new refugees, resources are stretched thin, and the needs of those with disabilities often take a backseat.
But amidst all the challenges, there is still hope. Organizations like the Syrian American Medical Society (SAMS) and Handicap International have been working tirelessly to provide medical care and rehabilitation services to those with disabilities in Syria. They have set up rehabilitation centers and mobile clinics to reach those in remote areas, providing them with prosthetics, physiotherapy, and psychological support.
Salam was fortunate enough to receive help from SAMS. With their support, she was able to get prosthetic legs and undergo physical therapy to learn how to walk again. She also received counseling to help her cope with the trauma of her experience. Today, Salam is able to walk with the help of her prosthetics and is slowly regaining her independence.
But the journey to recovery is not easy. It takes a toll on both the individual and their families. Many families struggle to provide the necessary care and support for their loved ones with disabilities, often facing financial difficulties and social stigma. This is where the role of civil society organizations becomes crucial. They not only provide medical assistance but also work towards creating a more inclusive society for those with disabilities.
It is heartening to see that despite the challenges, there are individuals and organizations working towards making a positive impact in the lives of those affected by the war. Their efforts may seem small in the grand scheme of things, but for someone like Salam, it has made all the difference.
As the Syrian war continues to rage on, it is important to remember the human cost of this conflict. The injuries and disabilities that have been inflicted on innocent civilians are a stark reminder of the brutality of war. It is our responsibility as a global community to not only provide aid and support to those affected but also work towards finding a lasting solution to end this senseless violence.
Salam’s story is just one among thousands, but it serves as a reminder of the resilience and strength of the Syrian people. Despite all the challenges they have faced, they continue to persevere and rebuild their lives. And with the support of organizations and individuals who refuse to turn a blind eye to their struggles, there is hope for a better future for all Syrians.
