Gaza — Dr. Khaled Al-Saidani, a 51-year-old pediatrician, walks through the pediatric ward of Al-Aqsa Hospital on one real leg and one prosthetic leg. His condition is a testament to the devastating impact of war on Gaza’s healthcare system. For Al-Saidani, continuing his medical mission despite losing a leg to an Israeli airstrike was an unequivocal decision.

“This is my duty,” Al-Saidani declared with determination. Though walking is challenging, he continues to work in the pediatric ward, emphasizing that while he may now be physically disabled, his medical expertise remains essential to the community.

Six months ago, an airstrike not only cost Al-Saidani his leg but also destroyed his home in the Al-Bureij refugee camp and claimed the lives of several family members. Like thousands of other Gaza residents, he became both a victim and a caregiver in a war that has shattered countless lives.

The airstrike, delivered without warning, displaced Al-Saidani’s family and left him in a state of despair. Struggling with depression for months, he questioned whether life was worth continuing. At times, he wished he had perished in the attack, feeling that his life had lost all meaning.

However, amid a medical crisis and staff shortages in Gaza's hospitals, Al-Saidani decided to return to work. Initially using a wheelchair, he later transitioned to a locally produced prosthetic leg. While imperfect, the prosthetic provided him with enough inspiration to persevere.

Beyond the loss of one leg, medical tests revealed severe arterial blockages in his remaining leg, which could necessitate amputation in the worst-case scenario. Despite this, Al-Saidani remains resolute in his commitment to his patients.

“I cannot abandon the hospital, especially as a pediatrician. There are children who need special care during this war,” he stated.

The Palestinian Ministry of Health reported that the conflict between Israel and Hamas, which erupted on October 7, 2023, after a deadly Hamas attack killing around 1,200 Israelis, has resulted in over 46,000 Palestinian deaths and more than 109,000 injuries. The majority of casualties have been women and children.

For Al-Saidani, returning to work is more than fulfilling professional obligations—it has reignited his will to live. Despite the challenges, he is determined to continue serving his community, no matter the circumstances.

Source:
Xinhua Thai – Defying Fate: Gaza Doctor Who Lost His Leg Continues to Treat Child War Victims