‘IT’S A DIFFERENT LIFE THERE’
Dubai-based Little Wings Foundation that recently partnered with Al Jalila Foundation, provides medical assistance to up to 150 children, preselected by the Palestine Children’s Relief Fund (PCRF) in one week. A team of two surgeons, including Sinclair, dedicates 4-6 days to operate about 30 children during their one-week visit.
Since its inception in 2007, the foundation has helped provide aid to 600 war-stricken children or those born with deformities and neuromuscular disorders.
The most common cases found are cerebral palsy, resulting from complicated pregnancies. “These patients need a lot of assistance, surgeries and follow-up on the long term,” said Sinclair.
“We offer medical advice and perform surgeries needed, then follow up with them in every visit. This gives us the chance to know and feel close to the children and their parents,” said Sinclair.
During the rough demonstration times, Khan Younis Hospital sometimes empties its emergency rooms to get ready for the flood of injuries and casualties.
“A lot of injuries come in per day and we mainly see cases of leg amputations. A whole generation
It’s painful to see that there’s no resources for them to find comfort in treatment, and that’s what kept us coming back.”
Dr Marc Sinclair, surgeon
of disabled people is created right there.”
Sinclair, who is going to Gaza next November, said the most impactful moment for him as a doctor is watching worried parents wanting to save their children, but without access to resources.
“It’s painful to see that there’s no resources for them to find comfort in treatment, and that’s what kept us coming back. Children are locked and disabled with their parents desperate for help. When you relate to this as a parent, you would want to be there,” said Sinclair.
And during every visit, Sinclair takes a day to clear his mind through strolling the streets of Jerusalem. “We need a day to reflect and think about what we have seen before flying back to Dubai. It’s a strikingly different life that you only realise once you’re there.”