Mustafa’s family struggles to survive after enduring over a decade of displacement. The family of nine, including seven children, fled their hometown of Al-Tamoura in northern Aleppo due to the brutal attacks launched by the Syrian regime on civilians. Each time they sought safety, they faced the threat of displacement anew
A Home in the Wilderness and Barely Enough to Survive
Mustafa and his family now live in a single room amid the woods, grappling with dire economic conditions. “We left everything behind—our home, our land, even our memories. Now we survive on sporadic aid,” Mustafa explains. As a water tanker driver, Mustafa earns just enough to cover basic needs, while his wife supplements the family’s income by working in agriculture.
An Unexpected Incident: A Snake Bite Threatens Riyad’s Life
One morning, the family awoke to the piercing cries of Riyad, their three-year-old son. The boy was in severe pain, his left hand swollen alarmingly. “I didn’t understand what happened, but Riyad’s hand looked terrifying. I carried him on my shoulders and rushed to Al-Fardous Hospital, run by the Syria Relief and Development (SRD) organization,” Mustafa recalls.
“I didn’t understand what happened, but Riyad’s hand looked terrifying. I carried him on my shoulders and rushed to Al-Fardous Hospital, run by the Syria Relief and Development (SRD) organization,”
Swift Medical Response
At Al-Fardous Hospital’s emergency department, Riyad showed severe symptoms, including pallor and significant swelling in his upper left limb, necessitating immediate medical intervention. “We administered intravenous fluids and stabilized his cardiovascular condition,” says the attending physician. Upon examination, the doctors confirmed that Riyad had been bitten by a rare and dangerous snake species. They promptly administered an anti-venom serum, which was readily available.
A Journey of Recovery
After initial stabilization, Riyad was transferred to the intensive care unit for further treatment, including surgical follow-up and broad-spectrum antibiotics to prevent complications. Over several days, Riyad was closely monitored until his condition fully stabilized, allowing him to breathe and move normally once again.
Riyad Returns Home
After days of careful treatment and observation, Riyad was discharged, returning home to the joyous embrace of his family. “I never imagined my son would recover so quickly. It was terrifying, but thanks to God and the team at Al-Fardous Hospital, Riyad is now healthy,” Mustafa shares
Al-Fardous Hospital: A Lifeline for Displaced Families
Run by SRD, Al-Fardous Hospital provides round-the-clock, free medical services to residents of Darat Izza and surrounding areas, including camps. These services range from emergency care to surgeries and pediatric health services. “Our mission is to deliver urgent healthcare to displaced and vulnerable populations, especially amid the region’s dire circumstances,” says a hospital representative.
“Our mission is to deliver urgent healthcare to displaced and vulnerable populations, especially amid the region’s dire circumstances,” says a hospital representative.
Hope for a Better Life
Riyad’s story is just one example of the immense challenges facing displaced families in Syria. Thanks to swift medical intervention and ongoing care, this little boy overcame a life-threatening ordeal. However, the urgent need to bolster healthcare services and support displaced families remains a top priority to ensure dignity and hope for those in crisis.
