Reem Abou Haya, a 5-month-old baby, is the lone survivor of an airstrike in Gaza that killed her entire family. She was pulled from the rubble, injured and crying for her mother’s milk. The strike killed 13 members of her family and left Reem with deep emotional and physical scars. Thousands of children in Gaza have been separated from their families due to the ongoing war, leading to long-term developmental impacts.
In the midst of a monthslong military offensive, more than 40,000 people, including newborns, have been killed in Gaza. Reem’s situation is particularly dire as she refuses to drink formula and is in danger of dehydration. Doctors warn of the long-term health challenges that children like Reem may face due to ongoing trauma and displacement.
Despite the loss of her family, Reem’s surviving relatives are determined to care for her. Reem’s aunt, Soaad, has taken on the responsibility of caring for her, acknowledging that she is not the first orphan in Gaza and won’t be the last. Reem’s immediate need is to find a lactating mother who can feed her, as she continues to search for her own mother.
The war in Gaza has left a devastating impact on children like Reem, who are struggling to cope with loss, trauma, and displacement. The future for these children remains uncertain, but for now, their most pressing need is for basic care and support to ensure their survival and well-being.
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