A Shared Flight For A future : Salama & Me

My name is Warda, and‏ I am a sixth-year medical student in Gaza. I'm reaching out to you today with a story of a cat I recently rescued named Salama, and a plea for both of our futures. Salama, which means "safety" or "salvation" in Arabic. His name reflects my hope for his recovery and a peaceful future, a stark contrast to his past.

Salama was pulled from the rubble of a bombed-out home in Gaza. His owners tragically did not survive, but he did, emerging with deep wounds on his paws and a profound psychological trauma. He was so terrified that he initially soiled himself from the shock.

I decided to adopt him and give him a chance at life. The vet performed a complex surgery, including a skin graft on his paw and stitches for his other injuries, and treated him for severe dehydration. However, his road to recovery has been incredibly difficult. Salama needed a special diet to help his wounds heal, but finding proper cat food in Gaza is nearly impossible. If it's available at all, a single kilo can cost over $100. Just like us, Salama was forced to eat bread. Tragically, his malnourished body could not heal. The skin graft failed, and his wounds are now re-opening and festering.

Salama urgently needs more surgeries on his paw and a consistent supply of nutritious cat food to truly recover. The cost of these treatments is beyond my means due to the devastating conditions and high prices in Gaza.

Like‏ Salama, I am also a survivor fighting for my future. I am on the verge of graduating from medical school, but the ongoing war has made it impossible for me to pay my tuition fees. My outstanding debt has accumulated to 8,700 Jordanian Dinars (approximately $12,250 USD). Without paying this debt, I will not be able to receive my degree. After six years of hard work, my dream of becoming a doctor and serving my community is at risk.

‏We are both victims of a crisis far beyond our control. Salama needs a chance to live, and I need a chance to save lives. Your donation will not only help him heal but will also help me secure my education and future.

‏Your support will go directly towards:

‏ * Urgent surgeries to fix his failed skin graft and properly close his wounds.

* A monthly supply of specialized cat food to ensure he gets the nutrients he needs to heal and grow strong.

‏ * My education: To pay the outstanding tuition fees so I can receive my medical degree and begin my career as a doctor.

‏Please help us both get the second chance we desperately need. Salama is a fighter. Despite everything he has been through, he still purrs and shows affection, and I learn this everyday from him. Every contribution, no matter the size, is a step towards a brighter, safer future for us both.

Thank you for your compassion.