Rebuilding Dreams: "Support Roa's Journey to Medicine"

My name is Roa Nader Zaqout, a Palestinian teenager from Gaza who has experienced the storms of conflict, enduring 156 days of turmoil that have left deep scars on my mental health. The harrowing experiences of war have tested my resilience, compelling me to seek refuge in Egypt in search of safety. I have graduated from high school with a remarkable grade of 97.6 and am ranking third in my class. I was elated to have achieved the necessary score to pursue my dream of studying medicine. With great anticipation, I eagerly registered at the Islamic University in Gaza, envisioning a future filled with promise and opportunity. For three weeks, I was filled with joy and determination as I embarked on this new chapter of my life, pouring my heart and soul into my studies. However, on the fateful day of October 7th, everything changed in an instant. The university, which had become a beacon of hope for me, was bombed, shattering not only the physical structure but also my dreams and aspirations. Here are pictures of my high school certificate, university registration form, and the devastating aftermath of the destruction inflicted upon my university.

Losing my family members and witnessing the destruction of our cherished home has been an unimaginable tragedy. Our house, which we had recently renovated with love and care, adorned with modern decor, was a sanctuary we took great pride in. Seeing my parents pour their hearts into designing and tending to every detail, only to have it all ripped away in an instant, is a pain beyond words. The images that now remain, capturing the devastation wrought by bombs and airstrikes, serve as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the brutality of conflict.

At such a young age, grappling with such profound loss feels overwhelming. Losing loved ones, cherished memories, my university, and our home creates a mental health crisis. However, my dedication to fulfilling my dream of studying medicine burns brighter than ever. Like many teenagers, I dream of making a positive impact on the world. Yet, the staggering tuition fees for studying medicine present a daunting obstacle. Therefore, I am reaching out for assistance to pursue my dream of studying medicine and contributing to a brighter future. Thank you for taking the time to read my story and consider supporting me on this journey.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Roa Nader Zaqout