A heartfelt welcome unfolded at Heathrow’s Terminal 5 as two young girls from Gaza arrived for much-needed medical care. This event marked a significant milestone, as it was the first time UK visas had been granted to children from the war-torn region.
The atmosphere was filled with joy and relief as volunteers gathered to greet the girls, Ghena Abed and Rama Qudiah. Many held flowers and gifts, celebrating this moment after a long and difficult journey. The two girls had traveled from Cairo, having received special permission to enter the UK for urgent medical treatment.
Five-year-old Ghena Abed is in desperate need of care for her left eye, where fluid is pressing on her optic nerve. Her arrival was met with cheers from the crowd. Twelve-year-old Rama Qudiah, who is malnourished and weak, may require surgery on her bowel. Her mother, Rana, expressed overwhelming gratitude, describing their arrival in Britain as "just like a dream."
The process to bring these children to the UK was not easy. It took 17 months of hard work from British volunteers at Project Pure Hope to secure temporary visas for Ghena and Rama. Until now, no children from Gaza had entered the UK for medical care since the current conflict began.
Dr. Farzana Rahman, a member of the volunteer group, shared the motivation behind their efforts. Many of the volunteers are healthcare workers who feel a deep compassion for children suffering from medical issues. She noted that the delays in securing visas have been frustrating, as they are acutely aware that time is of the essence when it comes to helping vulnerable children.
The arrival of Ghena and Rama is part of a larger effort to provide medical care to children from Gaza. Although a deal was signed in March allowing for the evacuation of up to 2,000 children for treatment, only a handful have been able to leave so far.
Project Pure Hope is committed to continuing their work. They have identified more children in need of assistance and are eager to help them as quickly as possible. Dr. Rahman emphasized the urgency of their mission, stating that delays can cost lives.
As Ghena and Rama begin their treatment in the UK, the hope is that their stories will inspire further action to help other children in need.