Help us survive the war!

Dear contributors,

I am reaching out with an urgent appeal for your support to assist my family in Gaza. Desperation compelled me to seek help, and although I've exhausted all efforts, the only solution now is financial assistance ranging from $5,000 to $8,000 for each member of my beloved family. This aid is not just a necessity for their safety during the ongoing war; it's a beacon of hope amid the shattering loss of our once beautiful home.

In our close-knit family, each individual holds unique dreams and aspirations. There's Mohammed at 23, Ibrahim at 20, and Yousef at 18, each with their own journey. Shams, a 25-year-old beacon of strength, Sara at 16 with a world of potential ahead, and Aya at 26, who recently welcomed a baby amid the turmoil. Not forgetting my brother-in-law, an essential part of our family tapestry. Each one had dreams to chase, and despite facing life's hardships, they lived with resilience. However, the stark reality is that now, in Gaza, they find themselves without the means to sustain their lives, just like countless others in the community. Your compassion and support would mean the world to us during these challenging times.

My Father, Mohammed, Ibrahim, and Yousef

We hold no intention of forsaking our lives or careers at home. Instead, we long for the chance to endure and wait out the violence. When the war finally ends, we aspire to return home and embark on the arduous journey of rebuilding our shattered lives. Your compassion and support mean the world to us in these trying times.

I've been working as a media professional in Qatar for the past two years, having completed my master’s degree at the Doha Institute for Graduate Studies. After four years abroad, I visited my family in late July, and the joy was so overwhelming that I chose not to say goodbye, confident that I could visit them more often despite any obstacles.

On October 7, 2023, my mother called to check on me, offering advice in case the war took a turn for the worse. She insisted I take care of myself. I reassured her, saying, "Inshallah, everything will be okay." However, having lived through three wars, I understand the constant fear of impending danger every second. This war, as my mother rightly expressed, has been devastating, resulting in the loss of everything we held dear.

Currently, I'm wholeheartedly searching for job opportunities for my father at any university in Qatar. My father, Dr. Marwan Hamdan, holds the esteemed position of a professor in English literature at Al-Azhar University. His life's dedication has been to construct a home filled with warmth and memories. Regrettably, the harsh reality is that my family has endured the loss of everything, and my father, despite seeking refuge in the south of Gaza, suffered a head injury. The significant role he played in shaping the education of numerous professionals in diverse fields is now hanging in the balance.

I am optimistic that we can secure an academic opportunity for him in Qatar, provided we successfully navigate through Egypt, facilitating their evacuation to Qatar.

Imagine placing yourself in my father's shoes – at 60 years old, compelled to begin life anew as if he were in his early twenties. This profound shift is not a matter of choice but a necessity, considering our home and the entire familiar surroundings have been obliterated. The workplace where my father dedicated his efforts, including the university, now stands in ruins. Even the new car he recently invested in has suffered complete damage.

Survival at this point hinges on leaving Gaza through the Egyptian border, specifically the Rafah crossing. However, the stark reality is that each person must pay a hefty sum ranging from $5,000 to $8,000 to coordinate entry into Egyptian territory. Regrettably, this financial burden exceeds our means, considering the dire circumstances we find ourselves in. Our home, the source of our livelihood, has been demolished, including Al-Azhar University in Gaza, where both my father works and it is our sole source of income. We have been displaced four times, and there is no source of income or any signs of normal life. Fulfilling even basic needs is a constant struggle.

As Ramadan approaches, and the Muslim world welcomes this holy month, my 16-year-old sister wonders why Ramadan can't be delayed for us. We used to have great food for Iftar, and we always felt passionate about Ramadan vibes. Now, Ramadan is coming with the vibes of famine and hunger while we struggle to get enough food to eat.

My married sister, Aya, also experienced the loss of her home. She and her husband operated a Cosmetics shop in the Sheikh Radwan area in Gaza, named "Cute Cosmetics," which unfortunately was burned and bombed. The shop held significant sentimental value for her. Moreover, she gave birth during the war under distressing circumstances. To help them recover from their losses, they require $40,000. Currently, they have no valid source of income.

Our home before and after

Our Cat "Beso"

There is no safe place in Gaza, as you hear the sounds of terrible bombing and explosions approaching you day after day.

The situation is getting worse and more dangerous, the bombing is heavy, and vast number of massacres are taking place everywhere especially in the "safe" south as they reclaim, military planes are everywhere and they shoot anything that's moving. I run out of time and instead of just observing from outside, I want to help my family out to be safe at least!

The situation is rapidly deteriorating, with heavy bombings and numerous tragic events unfolding, especially in the so-called "safe" south. Military planes are omnipresent, firing at anything that moves. Time is of the essence, and rather than remaining a helpless observer, I am determined to ensure the safety of my family.

Once again, I extend my heartfelt appreciation for your previous contributions. In light of the escalating crisis, I kindly request you to consider resharing and spreading the campaign to garner additional support.

Please share this with friends and colleagues and let's bring my family to safety.....together. Thank you for standing with us.

Thank you for standing with us during these challenging times.

With gratitude, Aseel Hamdan