A Journey of Hope for a Family in Gaza

Dear Everyone,

I hope you're finding some moments of peace in the midst of all the chaos life throws at us. My name is Maha Balata, and today, I'm coming to you with a heart full of worry for my family in Gaza. This is a plea born out of necessity, reaching out to our global community as a last resort, hoping for your compassion, empathy, and support in a situation that's not just critical but deeply personal.

"These pictures capture moments from our home before the war—reminders of the life we once cherished."

The situation in Gaza has taken a toll beyond imagination, leaving my family with nothing – no home, no belongings, and, most importantly, no sense of safety. The constant bombings have forced them into a life of uncertainty, where survival means moving from one temporary refuge to another on foot. They've endured days in crowded hospitals, nights in makeshift shelters at schools, and now find themselves living in tents on the unforgiving streets. They lack basic necessities like medical care, clean clothes, water, food, and sanitation, plunging them into a dire situation. The harsh conditions have given rise to diseases, adding another layer of complexity to their already perilous circumstances.

"These pictures reflect the difficult life they are currently enduring."

As I share this plea, I've just received devastating news about my six-month pregnant sister, facing a critical medical situation in the hospital. The fear for her unborn child and her own life is overwhelming as she battles constant bleeding. The lack of proper medical facilities and resources intensifies our desperation. Faced with these dire circumstances, evacuating my family to Egypt has become the only lifeline – a chance at safety, stability, and urgent medical attention for my sister.

However, the financial burden of such a move is staggering, and it's with humility and urgency that I reach out for your support to make this evacuation a reality. The permit fee to cross Rafah is 5000 euros per person, and with ten family members, the total cost is overwhelming. On top of that, we need 8,000 euros to cover immediate living expenses, medical treatment, and care, especially for my sister's delicate health condition. Adding to our challenges, there's a child in the family who recently completed leukemia treatment before the war and needs monthly medical examinations and analyses during this recovery period. Lastly, we require approximately 1,995 euros to cover the GoFundMe transaction fees (2.9% + $0.30 per transaction).

Your support has the power to change the trajectory of my family's life and ensure their safety. In this critical moment, every contribution, regardless of its size, will leave an indelible mark on their journey toward a new beginning. Your generosity can be the light that breaks through the darkness surrounding their lives.

I sincerely ask for your help through donations or by sharing this campaign within your networks. Your kindness will not only help us reach our financial goal but will also stand as a testament to the incredible strength that lies in collective empathy and compassion.

Thank you for being a source of hope and strength during these challenging times.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Maha Balata