Inside Shati Refugee Camp, Gaza, the realities of life amid displacement are starkly evident, particularly for families like that of 30-year-old Raneem Abu Al-Eish. She thrives in her role as a caregiver for her two sisters, Aseel, aged 51, and Afaf, aged 33, who face significant challenges due to celiac disease and intellectual disabilities. Their struggle for dignity is compounded by the ongoing conflict and the devastating impacts of war.
In their cramped tent, which houses seven family members including their elderly parents, Raneem’s daily life is a blend of laughter and distress. The vibrant sounds of children playing outside frequently lead to moments of agitation for Aseel and Afaf, as they grapple with overwhelming sensory experiences and emotional responses. Raneem articulates her sisters’ challenges, drawing a parallel to conditions such as Tourette syndrome, as they navigate a world that often misunderstands them.
The family’s journey began in Block 2 of Jabalia Camp, where they lived until their home was destroyed eight months ago. Since then, they have experienced a tumultuous series of displacements—from relatives’ homes to overcrowded UN schools—eventually finding themselves in a tent that lacks adequate insulation against the harsh elements of both summer and winter.
The sisters’ plight is further exacerbated by the ridicule they face from others. Raneem reflects on the ignorance surrounding her sisters’ conditions, expressing a deep desire for understanding and compassion from the community. “People do not realize the efforts they require; it is our collective responsibility to foster patience and dignity for everyone, especially vulnerable individuals,” she emphasizes.
The family has felt the impact of loss profoundly, particularly following the detention of their brother, Mohammad, six months ago. His disappearance, after a hospital visit for surgery, has left an irreplaceable void. Mohammad was the family’s point of connection to the outside world—managing medical appointments and interacting with aid agencies—making his absence particularly damaging.
As they continue to navigate life within the camp, Aseel and Afaf face difficulties that go beyond emotional distress; they require specific nutritional needs due to their celiac disease. Finding gluten-free food in a region heavily reliant on wheat-flour products poses a significant challenge. The limited distribution of special dietary products due to border restrictions has made it increasingly difficult for the family to maintain the health standards they desperately need.
Psychological specialists underscore the growing marginalization of individuals with disabilities in Gaza as the conflict rages on. With approximately 15% of Gaza’s displaced population experiencing some form of disability, the lack of resources and adequate shelter only heightens their vulnerabilities. Raneem’s efforts to advocate for her sisters around the community often meet with social stigma and misunderstanding, highlighting the urgent need for empathy and recognition of their humanity.
In a harrowing landscape of destruction and strife, Raneem and her sisters embody resilience and strength. Their story, marked by hardship and the quest for understanding, calls for broader societal support for people with disabilities and their families. “These aren’t just war victims,” Raneem reminds us. “They are individuals deserving of recognition and care.”
As the turmoil in the region continues, it becomes increasingly crucial for the global community to acknowledge the challenges faced by those with disabilities in conflict zones, ensuring their needs are met and their voices heard.
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