Julia from Palestine
Meet Julia from Palestine!
Julia at home.
Julia was nine months old when she was admitted to the hospital with a congenital heart condition. She is the youngest daughter of a Palestinian family living in the camps. Her father, an accountant, is the sole provider for the family of five, including Julia.
Thanks to our amazing partners at Gift of Life Lebanon, Julia was able to receive the surgery she desperately needed. Gift of Life Lebanon was founded in 2015 by humanitarian Lina Shehayeb and like-minded Rotarians. The program has become a lifeline for children with congenital heart disease. Despite Lebanon’s complex and challenging socio-economic and political landscape, Gift of Life Lebanon has achieved remarkable milestones such as: 600 pediatric cardiac surgeries, 5,200 free full pediatric medical checkups, and 50,000 children assisted through their emergency relief program.
Julia’s case was particularly special and complex. Because of the seriousness of her heart condition, she needed major open-heart surgery to repair several parts of her heart. Despite the complexity of the operation, Julia had a very good postoperative recovery and was soon able to return home in better health.
Julia in the hospital after her surgery.
Her return home was a moment of great joy and relief for her family. Her little brother and sister were especially happy to have their baby sister back home with them. For her parents, seeing Julia healthier and recovering well brought hope, happiness, and reassurance for a brighter future.
Social Media Consultant for Gift of Life International
