A Letter from a Mother in Gaza

The sound of rockets and bombs was louder than my happiness, but I decided with my little baby that we will overcome all difficulties. We will survive whatever happens.

While seven months pregnant, I was forced to leave my home and live in a tent. I cried a lot, feeling that my brave baby won’t see the walls of his room that I always dreamt of doing and preparing for him. I took everything for him. After fifty days, I was forced to flee again under fire, running, screaming, shouting, and crying because of the bombs.

Two weeks later, I felt some pain. It’s labor pains, that means giving birth. No. It’s too early. I wanted to give birth at home. No way. I came to the field hospital for a check up and everything was great. The midwife and nurses were kind and warm.

I went directly back to the field hospital after feeling a pain I couldn’t bear. All the midwives were ready. No way for a natural birth, it’s too dangerous for me and the baby. They prepared everything in a few minutes, doing everything for me. Finally, “I am here, mummy. Hello to this evil world from me, Mohammad.”

That’s my baby. He’s here… Honestly, after spending three days here, it was the best decision that I came here to give birth. They took care of every single thing. I like that they smile all the time even though they are under pressure. They are a great team and we are lucky to have them here. From Mohammad, the son of Ala’a, thank you for everything. We are grateful for you.

I hope that we meet again in better times.

— Ala’a