20 June 2025
In the crowded Palestinian refugee camp of Nahr el Bared in northern Lebanon, life is often a daily struggle for 32-year-old Darine*, a mother of four, and her family. Like many Palestinian refugees, Darine and her family live in difficult conditions due to instability and a permanent humanitarian crisis. Her husband Ahmed works as a daily labourer, and his income – when there is work – barely covers the basics.
When Darine became pregnant with her youngest daughter, Doha*, she was overjoyed – but her joy quickly turned to fear. An early ultrasound raised concerns about possible congenital issues. Further tests revealed a serious condition that could lead to life-threatening bleeding during childbirth, putting both Darine and her baby at great risk.
“This is one of the most challenging situations a mother can experience. I lived through a nightmare for many long days, constantly fearing for my life and worrying about what will happen to my children if I die: how would they grow up alone, who would care for them, and what kind of life they would have,” said Darine.
Doctors advised that Darine would need a complex surgical procedure to safely deliver her baby. But the cost of the surgery was equivalent to the family’s total income for three entire months. With their limited income barely covering daily essentials, the burden of such a high medical expense made accessing the care Darine urgently needed feel impossible.
That’s when Darine learned about Medical Aid for Palestinians (MAP)’s work, in partnership with UNRWA, and supported by the Lebanon Humanitarian Fund (LHF), to support Palestinian refugee women with lifesaving hospital care and essential nutrition services.
Darine described the process as “straightforward with no complications or delays”. After providing the doctor’s reports she was quickly approved for support. Thanks to the support provided, nearly the entire cost of the surgery was covered. Darine underwent the procedure safely, and baby Doha was born healthy.
MAP’s support, however, had begun well before the day of the surgery. Throughout her pregnancy, Darine had been enrolled in the care of MAP’s team of community midwives, who provide home-based healthcare and nutrition support to over 3,000 at-risk mothers and infants in Palestinian refugee camps across Lebanon each year. This vital support ensured she wasn’t alone during her most vulnerable moments – before, during, and after childbirth.
Darine said that the midwife’s support was critical during her pregnancy as she helped her deal with all the concerns she had and the complications she experienced. “The midwife listened to me and gave very useful health advice. I felt cared for,” said Darine.
Now, with the surgery behind her, Darine is recovering well and embracing life with her new daughter. She is very grateful for the lifesaving support she received from MAP, who continue to deliver critical healthcare to other women.
With your help, MAP can continue to provide vital healthcare to Palestinians in Lebanon, Gaza and the West Bank.
*Names have been changed to protect the identities of those involved.
