Jana’s journey: how a nonprofit brought hope to a Palestinian girl in Los Angeles

In the heart of Los Angeles, a story of resilience and hope unfolds as 13-year-old Jana, a Palestinian girl who lost her leg in an Israeli airstrike, begins her recovery with the support of a nonprofit organization. Jana’s journey to Southern California is a testament to the power of community and the indomitable human spirit.

Jana’s life took a dramatic turn on December 21, 2023, when the home where her family sought shelter collapsed during an Israeli military airstrike in Gaza. The catastrophic event led to the amputation of her leg. “All I remember is the roof falling on us,” Jana recounted. “I screamed because my leg hurt so bad. I remember touching my leg, getting blood and flesh on my hands, thinking, ‘I lost my leg.'”

The path to medical care was fraught with danger and chaos. Jana’s mother, Um Uthman, described the harrowing journey to the hospital, where airstrikes were ongoing, and no ambulance was available. What would typically be a 10-minute drive took over an hour due to rubble obstructing the roads. Jana, like many others, had to undergo serious medical procedures without anesthesia, as the ongoing attacks had decimated the healthcare system in Gaza.

“Every day when her dressing was changed, she would scream uncontrollably. The pain was something even men couldn’t handle,” said Jana’s mother. Jana was trapped in Al Shifa hospital for 15 days, during which mass graves were later discovered. “The Israeli army came into the hospital during Ramadan. They forced the men out, so my dad and brother are no longer with me,” Jana shared. “They took my mom and sister away, and I was alone, starving and thirsty. There was no food or water for all 15 days.”

The Role of the Palestine Children’s Relief Fund

The Palestine Children’s Relief Fund (PCRF) played a crucial role in Jana’s evacuation and subsequent medical care. Tareq Hailat, who heads the PCRF’s Treatment Abroad Program, highlighted the dire situation in Gaza. “People need to learn about the struggle of the Palestinian people. Thousands of kids are in danger of dying every day, whether from famine or airstrikes,” he said. One of Jana’s brothers was killed in an airstrike while trying to get water, and another sibling and her father, who has kidney cancer, remain in northern Gaza.

Due to the closed Rafah border and the lack of resources, it was almost impossible to pull children out to receive medical care. However, PCRF managed to secure travel and free medical care for Jana in Southern California. “What keeps me strong is my faith in God and His will,” said Um Uthman, Jana’s mother. “The will of God has written for us what will happen. It gives us patience and strength to keep going.”

A Warm Welcome in Los Angeles

This past weekend, a large crowd welcomed Jana at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) with flowers, colorful signs, and warm cheers, chanting “Jana! Jana! Jana!” The overwhelming support lifted Jana’s spirits. “Jana forgot the pain of traveling to get here,” her mother noted. “When she was first injured, she was depressed for three or four months. But when she heard we were coming here and had a chance to get a prosthetic, her spirits got better.”

Jana has started to get up and do normal things again, and she believes she can accomplish big things in the future. She dreams of studying business. “What keeps me strong is my faith in God and His will,” reiterated Um Uthman. “The will of God has written for us what will happen. It gives us patience and strength to keep going.”

Our Advice on the City

For those visiting Los Angeles, the city offers a myriad of experiences that cater to both occasional and expert travelers. If you find yourself in the city, take the time to visit the Griffith Observatory for a breathtaking view of the cityscape and the iconic Hollywood sign. It’s a perfect spot to reflect on stories of resilience like Jana’s and to appreciate the beauty of human perseverance.

For expert travelers, consider exploring the lesser-known neighborhoods of Los Angeles, such as the vibrant arts district or the historic Olvera Street. These areas offer a deeper understanding of the city’s rich cultural tapestry and provide a more intimate experience of Los Angeles beyond the typical tourist attractions.

In conclusion, Jana’s story is a powerful reminder of the strength and resilience of the human spirit. Her journey from Gaza to Los Angeles, supported by the unwavering efforts of the Palestine Children’s Relief Fund, highlights the importance of community and faith in overcoming adversity. As you explore Los Angeles, let Jana’s story inspire you to appreciate the small victories and to find strength in the face of challenges.