Help Save Nisreen's Family

I left Gaza but Gaza never left my heart.

After living through more than five tough months in Gaza, I left my home, feeling sad and hurt as I said goodbye to my family. Now that I'm safe, I can't shake the guilt of leaving everyone behind.

My name is Nisreen, and this is my story. I'm 27 years old, a dentist, and a food blogger. Before October 7th, I had a beautiful life. I worked at a dental clinic, planned to pursue a master's abroad, and had a quiet life with my husband. Every week, we used to have a big dinner at my family’s old house. Now, everything has changed. What happened is more of a nightmare than a journey. We have been displaced over and over, and our lives are destroyed.

Thankfully, my husband and I managed to evacuate to Egypt. Now, I am raising funds to assist my family, whose home was completely demolished, and who are trapped in the war-torn city of Rafah in Gaza. My family consists of my parents, Sahar and Mohammed, both dedicated medical professionals, along with my siblings: Mahmoud (25), a passionate computer engineer who just graduated but lost his job and computer; Heba (23), an ambitious 5th-year medical student who will be unable to continue her education due to the destruction of her university; Dareen (18), a talented artist about to embark on her first year of university; and Dina (17), the sweetest and youngest sibling, eagerly anticipating her final year of high school.

(My family's home, before and after)

My sisters and brother are so kind and full of hope. They were my support system back in Gaza, and now it’s my duty to help them find their dreams again and finish their studies. Right now, there is only chaos and uncertainty surrounding them. Their only chance for safety lies in crossing the border into Egypt, but the cost demanded by Egyptian authorities is beyond our means. Each member of my family needs $5000 for safe passage, a staggering amount considering we have lost literally everything.

(Me hugging my sister goodbye before leaving the Gaza Strip)

I refuse to let violence claim my family. I wish more than anything that I did not have to ask you for help. Sometimes I think, 'If only we could go back in time and live like we used to,' but dwelling on the past won’t help. Right now, I have no choice but to seek your assistance. You are our only hope, and your contributions will directly fund their safe passage, their education, and provide for their basic needs during this dire time.

(My family members)

The funds will be allocated accordingly:

Please, open your hearts and consider donating whatever you can. Your compassion and support mean the world to us.

Note: I am being helped by Ahmed Abu Ghazala who is my husband's friend who has access to receive the funds and send them to me in Egypt so I can evacuate my family.