Ahmed, victim of an explosive ordnance
Explosive ordnance can be found anywhere in Gaza. Even playing in the street has become dangerous. Ahmed is one of its victims.
Ahmed during a rehabilitation session. | © Khalil Nateel / HI
A Life disrupted by an explosive ordnance
Ahmed (not his real name), 13, lives with his family in a displacement camp in the south of the Gaza Strip. In January 2024, while playing near his home in Rafah, he noticed a strange object on the ground. When he approached it, it suddenly exploded. The blast caused severe injuries, leading to the amputation of fingers on his left hand, multiple facial wounds, and partial vision loss in his left eye.
Ahmed felt ashamed of his appearance
Following his injury, Ahmed felt ashamed of his hand and stopped playing with his friends. He could no longer help his family with basic tasks like carrying water, and simple daily activities became a challenge. His confidence was deeply affected. Just two months later, a second shock struck the family when his brother Suad (not his real name) passed away.
HI, alongside Ahmed
Living in a remote area with limited financial resources made it difficult for the family to access rehabilitation services. Transportation was expensive and not easily available, further delaying Ahmed's recovery.
But in February 2026, Ahmed was enrolled in services provided by HI. He participated in physiotherapy and functional rehabilitation sessions focused on strengthening his upper body and helping him adapt to daily activities. He also attended joint sessions with physiotherapists and psychologists to manage pain and improve his overall well-being.
At the same time, his mother received psychosocial support sessions to help her cope with the grief of losing her older son — sessions she says helped her regain strength and re-engage with others.
Regaining autonomy
Ahmed is now able to dress himself without assistance and can carry water again. One of his proudest moments came when he successfully built a tent using tools like a hammer, despite having initially doubted his ability to do so.
"I started doing things like any other person without a disability," he said. "I built our tent myself. I didn't think I could do it, but I did."
Looking ahead
Today, Ahmed has overcome much of his fear and shame, returning to many of the activities he loves and rebuilding his confidence step by step. Though some challenges remain, he is more independent and actively engaged in daily life — and now dreams of becoming a football player.
