In the heart of the conflict-ridden Holy Land, Caritas Baby Hospital in Bethlehem stands as a beacon of light for families requiring pediatric care. Ayah Issa, a mother from Artas, knows the hospital’s worth firsthand as she held her son Ahmad, who spent over a year in the ICU for a congenital disease, while expressing gratitude towards Sister Aleya Kattakayam for her unwavering support.
The economic toll of the Israel-Hamas conflict has been heavy on West Bank residents, further emphasizing the importance of the hospital’s presence. Caritas Baby Hospital is not just a facility for medical intervention; it represents hope and compassion in a place where both are in scarce supply.
The hospital’s origins date back to 1953, and it has grown to become the sole pediatric hospital in the West Bank, offering services to around 50,000 children annually. Its dedication to care was epitomized recently as a medical team from the hospital provided examinations for 68 children from the SOS Children’s Village Rafah in Gaza, showcasing its commitment to serving children affected by war.
However, the harsh realities of the conflict are never far away, with high casualty figures and the tragic death of a young woman, Lara al-Sayegh, during a perilous journey amid a heatwave. These incidents underscore the daily struggles faced by the population of Gaza and the West Bank.
While diplomatic efforts for a truce continue, Caritas Baby Hospital remains critical for the local community in the West Bank. The hospital’s open-door policy and its emergency preparedness highlight its role not just as a medical institution, but as a lifeline for those caught in the throes of the ongoing conflict.
Article authored by Judith Sudilovsky for OSV News, based in Jerusalem.
FAQ Section
- What is Caritas Baby Hospital?
Caritas Baby Hospital is the only pediatric hospital in the West Bank, serving approximately 50,000 children each year. It was founded in 1953 in Bethlehem and provides healthcare services to children in the area, including those affected by the Israel-Hamas conflict.
- Who runs Caritas Baby Hospital?
The hospital was established by Caritas Switzerland employee Hedwig Vetter, Swiss Father Ernst Schnydrig, and Palestinian pediatrician Antoine Dabdoub. It is now affiliated with Swiss NGO Children’s Relief Bethlehem.
- How does the conflict affect Caritas Baby Hospital’s operations?
The ongoing conflict has led to increased demand for the hospital’s services due to economic difficulties and restricted access to medical care in the West Bank. The hospital responds by providing vital services, emergency preparedness, and a hotline for medical advice.
- Does Caritas Baby Hospital only serve the Christian community in Bethlehem?
No, Caritas Baby Hospital serves all children regardless of their religious or cultural background. It is part of a broader Christian social network providing services to those in need within the community.
Conclusion
The unwavering service of Caritas Baby Hospital in Bethlehem amidst the devastating impact of the Israel-Hamas conflict is a testament to the strength and compassion of its staff and the resiliency of the community it serves. In an environment marked by violence, economic hardship, and uncertainty, the hospital’s commitment to pediatric care and its open-door policy act as a lifeline to many, ensuring that the most vulnerable, the children, receive the care and support they desperately need. As the conflict continues to evolve, the hospital remains a critical institution, offering more than just medical treatment—it offers hope.