Real lives

Mahmoud is a 14 year-old orphan living in the El-Mugrakah area of Palestine. In early 2001, whilst out running errands, he was shot by a high velocity bullet. As a result, his left leg had to be amputated. Mahmoud became too frightened to even leave his room, and suffered from recurring nightmares and low self-esteem.

Shortly after the incident he was referred to the Integrated Care Programme for Traumatised Children where he was admitted in June.

Since joining the Centre, a different child has emerged. While the physical damage is still obvious, staff at the Centre have taken great pains to help heal the emotional scars which were preventing Mahmoud from enjoying a normal childhood.

Since his admission, Mahmoud has participated in activities provided by the centre and has re-learnt how to play with children of his own age.

Although there is a long way to go before he is completely rehabilitated, Mahmoud has shown that he has the strength to overcome these traumatic events. His remarkable journey from victim to survivor has been inspirational.

Mahmoud is just one child out of the many who have received support and treatment at the Centre.

His message, however, is the same as the message from every child who has passed through the doors of the Centre - one of thanks.

"Before I arrived here, I did not know how I would be able to survive, knowing that I would be seen as different from other children.

Since coming here, however, I have made new friends and have learnt lots of new things. I am no longer frightened or angry and have learned to accept what has happened. All this is thanks to the staff at the Trauma Centre."

Mahmoud just wanted to send his thanks to everyone who had helped him, and the other children, through this difficult time.