PALESTINE CHILDREN'S RELIEF FUND

Past Newsletters

Winter 2003 (January), Number 1
Winter 2003 (February), Number 2
Winter 2003 (March), Number 3
Spring 2003 (April), Number 1
Spring 2003 (May), Number 2
Summer 2003 (June), Number 1
Summer 2003 (August), Number 2
Autumn 2003 (September), Number 1
Winter 2004 (January), Number 1
Summer 2004 (September, Number 1

PCRF-DC News
September 2004 ===============================================
IN THIS ISSUE:
[1] Hamad El-Neirab in DC for Prosthesis
[2] Little Friends for Peace
[3] Volunteer Opportunities for Health Care Professionals
[4] International/ National PCRF Updates
[5] Feature Photo
===============================================

[1] Hamad El-Neirab in DC for Prosthesis

In mid-August, the PCRF brought 11-year-old Hamad El-Neirab from the Southern Gaza Strip refugee camp of Rafah to Washington for cost-free medical care. Hamad was severely injured during the Israeli invasion of Rafah in May 2004 (“Operation Rainbow”), losing one of his legs to a tank shell explosion. Nine people were killed in that. Nascott Rehabilitation Services offered to provide a prosthesis at no cost after being contacted by PCRF, and Hamad is expected to resume normal mobility once he receives his new leg next week.

[2] Little Friends for Peace

On September 6, Hamad was invited to be the “peace ambassador” at a peace camp organized by a DC-area group called Little Friends for Peace (www.lffp.org). LFFP was established in 1981 to teach local children how to be peacemakers in their daily lives. Hamad had the opportunity to interact with American children his age, play, and answer questions about life for kids in Palestine. PCRF thanks LFFP for extending this special invitation to Hamad.

[3] Volunteer Opportunities for Health Care Professionals

The PCRF is a community-based effort, and its work depends to a great degree on activities initiated by health care professionals -- doctors, nurses, and students. If you are in the health care field, or know someone who is, please contact PCRF if you are willing to help arrange treatment for a Palestinian child at a US hospital, to coordinate medical supply/equipment donations to the West Bank or Gaza, or to participate in medical missions to Palestine. To help, contact dc-chapter@pcrf.net or call (703) 470-1076.

[4] International/ National PCRF Updates

Following are highlights of some of PCRF activities throughout the summer of 2004. A special thanks to the generosity of donors at the PCRF’s Washington DC Gala in May 2004, whose proceeds have already made it possible for us to sponsor a number of surgical missions and life-saving relief projects.

ITALIAN CARDIAC SURGERY MISSION TO NABLUS. Professor Carlo Vosa and his team from Naples, Italy went to Nablus on June 27th to screen 30 sick babies with congenital heart disease. The children were from the northern part of the West Bank and were all born with heart disease which cannot be treated locally. Many of the children will be transferred to Naples for free surgery through the PCRF. Prof. Vosa and his team have already treated nearly 30 Palestinian children over the past year through the PCRF in Naples, and 12 more children during a mission to Makassed in February.

BELGIAN CARDIAC TEAM SAVES LIVES IN JERUSALEM. On June 25th, an 8-member team of doctors and nurses from Belgium went to Palestine for a week of extensive open-heart surgery and invasive catheterization procedures on sick babies with congenital heart disease. This was the second mission to Makassed Hospital by the Belgian team, which was led by Dr. Katrien Francois and Professor Daniel de Wolf. The team is mainly from the University of Ghent, but also includes members from Brussels and a nurse from Canada. In addition to treating sick children with heart disease in Makassed, Prof. de Wolf also performed invasive catheterization procedures on sick babies at Ramallah Hospital.

2004 SUMMER CAMPS FOR HANDICAPPED CHILDREN. The PCRF sponsored 9 summer camps in 2004 – one in each area of Hebron, Bethelehem, Ramallah, Qalqilyah,Nablus, and 4 in Gaza. The two-week camps provide an opportunity for handicapped children to enjoy fun and learning activities, including arts and crafts, drama, sports, and health education. The main focus of the camps is to promote interaction between handicapped and non-handicapped children, increasing awareness about children with disabilities to allow their complete integration into Palestinian society. To read more about each summer camp, go to: http://www.pcrf.net/SummerCamps/summercamps.html

SWISS SURGEON TREATS CHILDREN IN HEBRON, RAMALLAH. On August 29th, Dr. Brigitte Winkler, a plastic surgeon from Switzerland, arrived in Palestine for two weeks of volunteer surgery on children suffering from cleft lip and palate. Dr. Winkler spent one week at the Ahli Hospital in Hebron, where she performed about six surgeries per day, and then spent one week at Ramallah Hospital. This was the second PCRF surgical mission in 2004 focused on treating children with cleft lip and palate.

PCRF SENDS GLAUCOMA SPECIALIST FOR 2-WEEK TRAINING WORKSHOP INGAZA. On July 6 the PCRF sent Dr. James Standefer, Clinical Professor of Ophthalmology at the University of Minnesota, to Gaza City to train Palestinian eye surgeons for two weeks at the Ministry of Health Eye Hospital. Prof. Standefer had just returned from Afghanistanwhere he had also provided the same training for local doctors. He was very pleased with the response from the Palestinian doctors he trained. Glaucoma is a serious problem inGaza, and Prof. Standefer's trip has already helped improve the quality of care for future patients.

PCRF SENDS VASCULAR SURGEON TO NABLUS. In early June, the PCRF sent Dr. Munir Zohari, a vascular surgeon from Florida, to Rafidiah Hospital in Nablus to do surgery on local patients in need of treatment otherwise not readily available to them locally. He also trained local surgeons while giving lectures through the Ministry of Health in Nablus.

PALESTINIAN SURGEON SENT TO TREAT LEBANON REFUGEES. On July 4th, the PCRF sent Dr. Hisham Ammous to Haifa Hospital in the Bourj Al Barajnah refugee camp in Lebanon. Dr. Ammous is a plastic surgeon at Makassed Hospital in East Jerusalem, and was on a previous mission to Beirut with the PCRF and Dr. Jane Petro in January 2004.

POWDERED MILK DISTRIBUTION TO RAFAH. In the beginning of 2004, the PCRF responded to the urgent humanitarian crisis facing the families of Rafah by distributing powdered milk to malnourished children under siege. For one week, the Israeli army cut off Rafah from the rest of the Gaza Strip, denying many people access to food. During the distribution 400 boxes of powdered milk went to 200 needy children in Rafah.

POWDERED MILK DISTRIBUTION TO NABLUS. On July 20, the El Bireh Palestine Society sponsored a powdered milk distribution to Nablus and its surrounding villages. Members of the El Bireh Society personally traveled to Nablus to help with the two-day distribution during which 400 boxes of milk which went to 200 needy children. It was an example of a successful collaboration between organizations that can be repeated with any other group interested in seeing their donations in action.

PCRF DISTRIBUTES DIAPERS TO CHILDREN IN GAZA. In July and August, PCRF sponsored a large diaper distribution to central and southern Gaza as part of its Emergency Relief Program. The diapers were distributed to children with chronic disabilities who come from poor families.

PCRF-DC News
Winter 2004 (January), Number 1

IN THIS ISSUE:

[1] PCRF Receives 4 Stars From Charity Evaluator
[2] Host Family Needed for Palestinian Teen Patient (Houston Area)
[3] National and International PCRF Updates

[1] PCRF Receives 4 Stars From Charity Evaluator

America's premier independent evaluator of charities, Charity Navigator (www.charitynavigator.org), has awarded the PCRF its highest 4-star rating. According to their web site, receiving a four out of possible four stars "indicates that your organization excels, as compared to other charities in America, in the area of strong fiscal management." This is a significant accomplishment, as the PCRF works hard to ensure that the funds we raise go
directly to provide medical relief on the ground in Palestine.

[2] Host Family Needed For Palestinian Teen Patient (Houston Area)

The Palestine Children's Relief Fund (www.pcrf.net) is seeking HOUSTON AREA host families for the duration of 2-3 months to provide housing for an 18-year-old girl from a Palestinian refugee camp in South Lebanon. The PCRF has arranged for the girl to come to the Spring Branch Medical Center in Houston to receive donated orthopedic surgery to correct a hip deformity. However, the PCRF cannot bring her until a reliable host family in Houston can be located.

Hosting a Palestinian child while she is in the U.S. to receive life-changing surgical treatment is a deeply rewarding experience, and offers a way of helping in time of great need. Over the years, PCRF has brought 400 children to the U.S. and Europe who have been cared for by people wanting to make a difference.

If you are interested in opening your home to this girl (who will be traveling alone without a parent) for any amount of time, please contact the PCRF social worker, Huda Sosebee, as soon as possible: Huda@pcrf.net (330)
678-2645

[3] National and International PCRF Updates

American Orthopedic Surgeons Perform First Spinal Fusion in Gaza: On February 14, Dr. Hugh Watts, a pediatric orthopedic surgeon and former chief of staff at Shriners Hospital in Los Angeles, performed the first spinal fusion on a scoliosis patient at Al-Quds Hospital in the Gaza Strip. Dr. Watts worked with Dr. Ala' Al Sheikh, who trained at L.A. Shriners all of last year, partly through PCRF support. Dr. Watts also brought tens of thousands of dollars of donated medical supplies through the PCRF to Palestine. He will remain in Palestine performing orthopedic surgeries on Palestinian children through the last week of February.

Italian Plastic Surgery Team in Gaza:
On February 14, an Italian plastic surgery team arrived in Khan Younis to begin a week-long surgery mission at the European Hospital for refugees with severe burns and congenital deformities. Led by surgeon Dr. Enrico Robbiti, the team consisted of 5 Italians and one American anesthestist from Minnesota. This was the second surgery mission to Khan Younis for Dr.Enrico's team, and they worked for one week to operate on over 60 needy
Palestinians.

American/Palestinian Plastic Surgery Team Arrives in Lebanon, Treats Refugees:
On January 23, Dr. Hisham Ammous, a plastic surgeon from Makassed Hospital in East Jerusalem, arrived in Lebanon to begin screening children for plastic surgery at the Haifa Hospital in the Bourj Al Barajnah refugee camp
in Beirut. On January 25, Dr. Jane Petro from New York joined him in Lebanon and together they treated cose to 50 children with burns, cleft lip and palate, and other congenital deformities that they otherwise would not get treatment for locally. This is the third plastic surgery mission sent by PCRF to Lebanon to treat Palestinian children.

Jericho Girls Gets Treatment in Spain:
In May, the PCRF sent 3 year-old Hiba Johari from the West Bank town of Jericho to Valencia, Spain for lifesaving open-heart surgery. Hiba was treated by Dr. Jose Caffarena on May 26, who successfully operated for 7 hours. Hiba's postoperative evolution was excellent and she has since recovered completely.

Two Children Arrive in Ohio for Donated Surgery:
In Feburary, the PCRF brought Ibrahim Mahboub, age 5, from the Dheisheh refugee camp in Bethlehem to Rainbow Babies and Children's Hospital in Cleveland, Ohio for life-saving open-heart surgery. Ibrahim initially had surgery four years ago by a PCRF team sent to Palestine, and had the second stage of his operation in Ohio. He is being treated as a charity case, which was arranged through the Gift of Life and Dr. Hani Hanenien, a cardiac surgeon at Rainbow Hospital. Ibrahim's sister also received open heart surgery through PCRF in Belgium two years ago.

14-year-old Mohammed Abu Kwaik from the Sheikh Radwan neighborhood in Gaza City arrived in late January for plastic and reconstructive surgery at the Shriners Hospital in Cincinnati, Ohio. Mohammed was badly burned on his face and body in a home accident 10 years ago, and was first brought to the US for treatment in 1995. This is his second stage of operations at the Shriners Hospital, where he is being treated as a charity case, and he is
being hosted by members of the Arab-American community

PCRF Provides Rufugee Children with Eye Glasses:
In mid-January, the PCRF worked with the optical center at the Deir Balah Rehabilitation Center to provide a dozen poor refugee children with eye glasses. The PCRF has worked with the DBR several times in the past by
donating thousands of dollars' worth of medical supplies, and PCRF hopes to continue this new program to provide eye glasses to many more Palestinian children in need.

PCRF Brings Triple-Amputee Back to US for Treatment:
In January, the PCRF arranged for triple amputee Bara Ghanem to return to the US for follow-up treatment at the Shriners Hospital in Chicago. This is the third time that the PCRF has brought Bara to the US to receive prosthetic limbs to replace those he lost in an electrical accident.

PCRF-DC News
Autumn 2003 (September), Number 1

IN THIS ISSUE :

[1] Hayat Jibreel: Successful Surgery at Hopkins
[2] Thank You from Salah
[3] Volunteer Opportunities for Health Care Professionals
[4] International/ National PCRF Updates

[1] Hayat Jibreel: Successful Surgery at Hopkins

On September 24, 15-year-old Hayat Jibreel underwent spine surgery at Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore to treat a severe case of scoliosis that she suffered from. Hayat was brought to the US by the PCRF to receive surgery and medical care that is being donated entirely by Johns Hopkins Hospital. Her surgery was a success and today Hayat has returned to recuperate with her host family in Maryland for the next few weeks.

The DC Area Chapter of PCRF will be hosting a get-together in the coming weeks for all who want to visit with Hayat and wish her well. Stay tuned.

[2] Thank You from Salah

Salah El-Hajeen, the 15-year old from Gaza who was in DC this summer toreceive surgery at George Washington University Hospital to treat wounds related to flechette shrapnel in his chest, wrote this letter and asked that
it be shared with all of you who had a chance to get to know him this summer:

From : Salah El Hajeen and family
Subject : A letter of thanks and appreciation

Dear friends --

I and the family cannot express our feeling to your greatly
appreciated hosting which had a great effect on us. The world still has
people who are humane and friendship. This means that we should always be
hopeful to find kind people like you. You are really unforgettable to all
that you did for me. All my family members and friends send you their
greeting from this end of the world to you. Words are not enough but I can
say that you are loved as I love my parents.

Best wishes to all. -- Your loving son and the family.

[3] Volunteer Opportunities for Health Care Professionals

The PCRF is a community-based effort, and its work depends to a great degree on activities initiated by health care professionals -- doctors, nurses, and students. If you are in the health care field, or know someone who is, please contact PCRF if you are willing to help arrange treatment for a Palestinian child at a US hospital, to coordinate medical supply/equipment donations to the West Bank or Gaza, or to participate in medical missions to
Palestine. To help, contact dc-chapter@pcrf.net or call (703) 470-1076.

[4] International/ National PCRF Updates

Following are highlights of some of PCRF activities over the past month:

HANAN ASHRAWI was the keynote speaker at an Orange County, California fundraising event on August 23 to benefit the PCRF. "It was a great honor to speak at such a unified event supporting a worthy humanitarian cause,"
said Dr. Ashrawi. The event, organized by American Friends for Palestine, raised over $125,000 to support relief projects in Palestine and Lebanon through the PCRF, including surgical missions, shipments of medical equipment and supplies, and sponsoring children for free treatment abroad.

FIRST ANNUAL WALKATHON FOR PALESTINIAN CHILDREN was held on September 14 in New Jersey, organized by AWARE (The Alliance for World Awareness of Rights and Equality www.awaremovement.com) to benefit the PCRF. Walkers came from all over New Jersey and New York to show their solidarity with Palestinian
children, and the event raised over $3000 for PCRF projects. The event was co-sponsored by Jews Against The Occupation, the Network of Arab American Professionals, and the Arab American Association of New York.

OVER 100 BAGS OF DIAPERS were distributed by the PCRF on September 3rd & 4th to over 50 children in the Central Gaza refugee camps of Nuseirat, Magazi, Dier Balah, and Buriej. The diapers were disitributed to the families of handicapped children who cannot afford to obtain these items on their own.

A SHIPMENT OF BREATHING MACHINES was delivered by the PCRF to families of children in the Gaza Strip who suffer from bronchial asthma.

TWO GAZA GIRLS RETURNED HOME on September 7 after spending nearly three months in Lusanne, Switzerland for life-saving open heart surgery organized by the PCRF. Malak Kishta, 6, and Ahlam Hamad, 11, were born with congenital heart disease requiring very advanced care that could not be provided in Gaza. They were sent to Switzerland by the PCRF in cooperation with Terre des Hommes (an international child advocacy organization), and treated by Dr. Antonio Corno. Over 6 children have been sent to Lusanne for heart surgery in the past two years through the PCRF--Terre des Hommes partnership.

PCRF-DC News
Winter 2003 (March), Number 3

IN THIS ISSUE:

[1] Ahmed's Surgery Update
[2] How Can You Help?
[3] In the News

[1] Ahmed's Surgery Update

On Friday, March 7, Ahmed Hammami finally underwent open heart surgery at Children's Hospital after several weeks of battling the flu. During the 6-hour surgery, doctors closed a large hole in his heart and opened what was
a near-complete blockage of the artery leading to Ahmed's lungs.

It was a very emotional day for Ahmed's mother Randa, but one that she spent with many local PCRF volunteers who shared this difficult day with her.

Ahmed's doctors called the surgery a very successful one and are optimistic about a quick and full recovery. Children's Hospital has a nearly 100% success rate performing the procedure on children in Ahmed's age group.
Ahmed will be in the pediatric intensive care unit of Children's Hospital (third floor) through Monday, after which he will be transferred to the recovery area for an additional few days. Since many have asked about visiting Ahmed at the hospital, visitors will be welcome at the hospital starting Monday , between the hours of 9am-5pm every day of the week. Visitors are encouraged to wait until Monday when Ahmed will be transferred
out of intensive care.

Directions to Children's Hospital may be found on their website:
http://www.dcchildrens.com/about/abt6.htm (Click on "Children's Hospital)

[2] How Can You Help?

How can you participate in making Ahmed's recovery in Washington as comfortable as possible? You can:
Visit the family at Ronald McDonald House or in the hospital. Provide transportation for the family to/from the hospital while Ahmed is in surgery and recovery. Provide the family with needed items (e.g., baby supplies, groceries, etc). Spend time with the family -- take them sightseeing, to dinner, the mall,grocery store, etc. Donate your frequent-flier miles to PCRF to help cover travel expenses for children. Spread the word about PCRF and encourage others to become involved. Contact us at the e-mail or phone below to get involved.

[3] In the News

PCRF cases generate great local media interest, and Ahmed is no exception. The latest installment was in-depth coverage of Ahmed's case by the Northern Virginia Journal (Tuesday, March 4 edition) and an excellent piece by CBS 9 on Wednesday, March 5.

You can view the CBS story online:
http://www.wusatv9.com/health/health_article.asp?storyid=15456

PCRF-DC News
Winter 2003 (February), Number 2

IN THIS ISSUE:

[1] Ahmed Comes to D.C.
[2] How Can You Help?
[3] In the News
[4] You're Invited...

[1] Ahmed Comes to D.C.

On Monday, February 4, one-year-old Ahmed Hamami and his mother Randa arrived in Washington, D.C. from Nablus, Palestine. They are staying at the Ronald McDonald House in Northeast D.C.

Ahmed has a series of medical appointments this week, and is scheduled for heart surgery on Wednesday, February 12 at Children's Hospital. The surgery will be performed by Dr. Gerald Martin, chairman of the department of cardiology at Children's Hospital.

Ahmed, like his older brother Mohammed, was born with a heart condition known as tetralogy of Fallot , a cardiac anomaly characterized by four related heart defects occurring together. Commonly known as "blue baby
syndrome," about 25% of babies die within the first year of life if this condition is left untreated. By age 4, the mortality rate increases to 40%. Here in the U.S., more than 95% of babies born with this condition have
surgery in the first year of life. In Palestine, where there is not a single pediatric surgical treatment center, and where access to medical treatment in general is hindered by military roadblocks, checkpoints, and curfews, sick children like Ahmed are placed at serious risk.

Like his older brother, Ahmed will receive free surgery arranged by the Palestine Children's Relief Fund , in cooperation with the Larry King Cardiac Foundation ,Save a Child's Heart Foundation , and Gift of Life .

[2] How Can You Help?

How can you participate in welcoming Ahmed to Washington and making his stay as comfortable as possible? You can:

o Visit the family at Ronald McDonald House or in the hospital.
o Provide transportation for the family to/from the hospital while Ahmed is in surgery and recovery.
o Provide the family with needed items (e.g., baby supplies, groceries, etc).
o Spend time with the family -- take them sightseeing, to dinner, the mall, grocery store, etc.
o Donate your frequent-flier miles to PCRF to help cover travel expenses for children.
o Help us offset the cost of accomodation expenses for Ahmed by writing a check or money order payable to "PCRF" and indicating "Ahmed Hamami fund." Mail to the address below.
o Spread the word about PCRF and encourage others to become involved.

[3] In the News

PCRF cases generate great local media interest, and Ahmed is no exception. ABC 7 is airing a series of updates on his treatment in D.C. throughout the coming week, starting today on the 5:00 news, so stay tuned. And please drop a note to ABC 7's medical reporter to express thanks for her coverage of a story which reflects on the larger humanitarian crisis in Palestine.

[4] You're Invited...

You're invited to join PCRF-DC at a lunch welcoming Ahmed and his mother Randa, and wishing him well on his upcoming surgery. We will gather at Lebnan Zaman Cafe in Vienna (8411 Old Courthouse Road, 703/748-1400, near Dunn Loring metro) on Sunday, February 9 at 1:00pm. Lebnan Zaman has graciously donated one week's rent for Ahmed's family at Ronald McDonald House.

This will not only be a great opportunity to meet Ahmed, but a chance to learn more about PCRF and how to get involved with your local chapter. Hope to see you there.

PCRF-DC News
Winter 2003 (January), Number 1

IN THIS ISSUE:

Washington, D.C. News
[1] About PCRF-DC
[2] Ready, Set, Wait
[3] Physicians Wanted
[4] Update on Falastin

National News
[5] "I Want to Help" Campaign
[6] PCRF Kids in the US

WASHINGTON, D.C. NEWS

[1] About PCRF-DC

Last summer, the Palestine Children's Relief Fund sponsored two-year-old Falastin Ali, from a village on the outskirts of Ramallah, to travel to D.C.'s Children's Hospital to receive a life-saving operation to repair a hole in her heart. During her two-week stay, physicians successfully repaired her tiny heart. In even less time, the toddler captured the hearts of virtually all the Washingtonians who gave their time to support Falastin and her mother during their stay in D.C. As a result of that contact with one special little girl, and the desire to support the mission of the 11-year-old PCRF organization, a group of those volunteers founded the
Washington, D.C. Chapter.

PCRF-DC's mission will be to secure donated medical care from D.C.-area hospitals and surgeons for Palestinian children in great need; to organize missions of medical volunteers to travel to Palestine and provide treatment
and training; to mobilize volunteers in the D.C. area to assist with children coming to this area for treatment; and to acquire funding to maintain the PCRF's humanitarian projects in the Middle East.

[2] Ready, Set, Wait

The PCRF has successfully made arrangements for one-year-old Ahmed Hammami from Nablus to have open heart surgery at Children's Hospital in Northwest Washington. Ahmed suffers from a complex congenital condition called Tetralogy of Fallot (or "blue baby syndrome"). Unfortunately for Ahmed's family, whose city has been under round-the-clock curfew since last summer, it has been virtually impossible for them to reach Jerusalem to obtain the required travel papers. PCRF's founder and president, Steve Sosebee, is on the ground in Palestine and is helping to facilitate this case.

As soon as they are able to overcome the curfew, Ahmed and his mother will be staying at the Ronald McDonald House in Northeast Washington. Volunteers will be needed to help the family with translation and transportation needs. Volunteers who can visit and make them feel welcome here are also a valuable contribution. For more information or to volunteer to help with Ahmed, please contact dc-chapter@pcrf.net

[3] Physicians Wanted

PCRF-DC has identified three Palestinian children for whom it is currently trying to arrange treatment in this area. Two are in need of orthopedic surgery and one is in need of neurosurgery. If you know of physicians specializing in these areas, please contact Susan Kerin at skerin@jwallc.com

[4] Update on Falastin

Last summer, the local, national, and international news media took an active interest in local PCRF activities related to the treatment of two-year-old Falastin Ali at Children's Hospital, the first PCRF child to be brought to D.C. for surgery. Following is sampling of that coverage:

Washington File (produced by the U.S. State Department), CNN Live ,United Press International , and Daily Star (Lebanon).

Today, Falastin no longer suffers from breathing problems, her fingers and toes do not turn blue due to poor circulation in her body, and she has gained the normal weight of a healthy two-year-old.

NATIONAL NEWS

[5] "I Want to Help" Campaign

The PCRF has launched the "I Want to Help" campaign to identify potential volunteers in advance who want to help with hosting and other PCRF services.

Although any and all types of volunteerism are welcome, following are some examples of the type of help we need:

o Providing translation and/or transportation services for children we bring to D.C.;

o Hosting a child in your home or visiting children to help make their stay as comfortable as possible;

o Referring us to friends, relatives, or colleagues in other cities who can help to identify resources there;

o Spreading the word to physicians, businesses, and other organizations that may want to learn more about contributing to the PCRF's work; and/or

o Letting us know of possible opportunities to exhibit or make presentations about PCRF to local community groups.

By having many people do just a little, we can achieve a lot. For more information or to be added to our database as a potential volunteer, please contact dc-chapter@pcrf.net

[6] PCRF Kids in the U.S.

Currently, there are several PCRF kids receiving treatment in various cities across the U.S., including a two-year old boy in Boston for heart surgery; a teen from Bethlehem in Philadelphia for prosthetic legs; and a teen from Nablus in New Jersey for surgeries related to a gunshot wound sustained during an attack by settlers.

For media coverage on the New Jersey teen, visit CBS, Newsday ,Asbury Park Press , or Herald News .

We applaud each host community's efforts to support these children, without which the PCRF's work would not be possible. PCRF-DC is committed to fully engaging the diverse local community of people interested in making a
positive contribution to the crisis facing Palestine's children.

PCRF-DC News
Summer 2003 (August), Number 2

IN THIS ISSUE:

[1] Salah El-Hajin: Tragic Anniversary, Hopeful Surgery
[2] Hayat Jibreel: from Bethlehem to Baltimore
[3] When a Community Comes Together...
[4] Presentation Opportunities
[5] International/ National PCRF Updates

[1] Salah El-Hajin: Tragic Anniversary, Hopeful Surgery

Exactly one year ago today, 15-year-old Salah El-Hajin and his family came under attack by Israeli flechette missiles as they slept in their plot of land in the Gaza Strip. Salah's mother, two of his brothers, and a cousin were killed during the attack, and Salah survived but with serious injuries - including a life-threatening aneurysm caused by flechette shrapnel embedded in his chest. For the past year, the aneurysm has been a ticking time bomb inside Salah, threatening to fatally rupture at any moment.

Salah arrived in DC ahead of schedule last weekend, and was soon afterward moved to The George Washington University Hospital where yesterday he underwent a successful surgery. There, a highly skilled team of surgeons used a minimally invasive procedure to seal off the aneurysm. At a press conference convened following the surgery, lead surgeon Dr. Anthony Venbrux was optimistic about Salah's full recovery.

Salah was released the same day and is now back in Arlington to recuperate with his host family. To view one of the many local news stories that aired about Salah, click here .

The DC chapter of PCRF will be planning a get-together for all who wish to visit with Salah and wish him well. If you would like to visit him on your own or have any additional inquiries, please contact dc-chapter@pcrf.net

[2] Hayat Jibreel: from Bethlehem to Baltimore

In mid-September, the PCRF will be bringing 16-year-old Hayat Jibreel from Bethlehem to The Johns Hopkins University Hospital to undergo spine surgery that is being donated by that hospital. We are still in search of volunteers to assist with services related to her visit. If you have already offered your help, thank you and we will contact you as Hayat's arrival approaches. O ther interested volunteers are encouraged to contact dc-chapter@pcrf.net or call (703) 470-1076.

[3] When a Community Comes Together...

...great things happen. The PCRF is a community-based effort , and Salah and Hayat's treatment in DC and Baltimore could not have been arranged without the help of an area doctor and medical student. PCRF wishes to
extend its great thanks to Dr. Khalid Kurtom, a neurosurgery resident at The George Washington University Hospital, and Mazen Bedri, a fourth-year medical student at The Johns Hopkins University, for making it possible for two Palestinian children to receive important medical attention.

If you are in the health care field, or know someone who is, please contact PCRF if you are willing to help arrange treatment for children at other area hospitals, to coordinate medical supply/equipment donations, or to participate in medical missions to Palestine. Contact dc-chapter@pcrf.net or call (703) 470-1076

[4] Presentation Opportunities

Because the PCRF devotes most of its resources to direct treatment services, we often do not have funds to take advantage of paid outreach opportunities (e.g., magazine advertising, exhibits, etc.). However, we welcome opportunities to present on panels or free exhibiting opportunities that reach a variety of audiences. If you know or belong to an organization that might be interested in learning more about the PCRF and the work that we do, please contact Susan at skerin1@msn.com

[5] International/ National PCRF Updates

Pediatric Cardiac Mission to Jerusalem: On August 11th, a 9-member team of pediatric cardiac surgeons and nurses arrived at Makassed Hospital on the Mount of Olives in East Jerusalem to start a two-week mission of providing life-saving surgery for sick children suffering from congenital heart disease. Also, in August, through the contributions of the Hope Haven International Ministries, a container of nearly 200 wheelchairs arrived in Bethlehem and Ramallah for distribution to poor handicapped children and people in the West Bank.

Wheelchair Shipment to Bethlehem and Ramallah: On August 8th, a container of nearly 200 wheelchairs arrived in Bethlehem and Ramallah for distribution to poor handicapped children and people in the West Bank. Hope Haven International Ministries donated these high-quality chairs to the PCRF for distribution as part of an ongoing relationship to assist disabled and handicapped children in Palestine. This was the sixth shipment coordinated between the two organizations, and several more are planned for the coming months.

Two Youths Arrive in U.S. for Treatment: On August 15th, the PCRF brought three injured youths to the US for free medical care. Abdullah Abu Saleh, 12, is from Rafah refugee camp and was shot in both legs last February by
Israeli soldiers. He is to have sciatic nerve surgery in Orange County, California. Maher Albaw, 17, from Abu Dees near Jerusalem had cancer of the jaw and will receive maxillofacial surgery at the University of Miami in
Florida. Gaza Baby to Arrive in September for Heart Surgery: The PCRF, working with HeartGift of Austin, Texas, will bring 1-year-old Zahia Zakout and her mother from the Northern Gaza Strip for open-heart surgery that is not
available to her there. 2003 Summer Camps for Handicapped Children . In the summer of 2003, the PCRF
sponsored four summer camps for handicapped children - in Tulkarem, Jenin, and Gaza. For more information, click here .

PCRF-DC News
Summer 2003 (June), Number 1

IN THIS ISSUE:

[1] Thank You!
[2] Washingtonian volunteering with PCRF in Jenin, Nablus
[3] Baltimore Area Volunteers Needed
[4] Belgian Doctor Denied Entry to Gaza, Deported
[5] Multi-National Surgical Team Saves Lives in Gaza
[6] U.S. Senator Acknowledges, Encourages PCRF
[7] "A Hopeful Palestinian Boy"

[1] Thank You!

The D.C. chapter of PCRF hosted a fundraiser on June 21, 2003 featuring special guest Dr. Hunter "Patch" Adams. The PCRF extends its most sincere thanks to everyone who came out to learn about PCRF and meet Patch Adams. You helped raise over $4,000 to support PCRF medical projects in Palestine. A special thanks goes to Lebanese Taverna for donating the D.C. area's tastiest Middle Eastern food for this event. If you could not attend but would still like to make a donation, please visit our website or see the contact information at the end of this newsletter.

A summary of the June 21 event is posted here: http://electronicIntifada.net/v2/article1670.shtml

[2] Washingtonian volunteering with PCRF in Jenin, Nablus

PCRF-DC chapter co-founder Daniel Quinn , a clinical social worker with the Arlington County public school system, arrived in Palestine this week to spend two months providing training and consultation to PCRF field workers in Jenin and Nablus. We will be sharing excerpts from his journal throughout the summer. Last summer, Dani spent two months volunteering his services in the Gaza Strip and West Bank, in the process helping to launch the PCRF's child sponsorship program .

[3] Baltimore Area Volunteers Needed

In mid-September, the PCRF will be bringing 16-year-old Hayat Jibreel from Bethlehem to the Johns Hopkins University Hospital to undergo spine surgery that is being donated by that hospital. We are in search of Baltimore host families willing to provide housing for Hayat during her stay, as well as other volunteers who can help with services such as transportation and translation. Interested host families are encouraged to contact Huda at huda@pcrf.net while other volunteers may contact dc-chapter@pcrf.net

[4] Belgian Doctor Denied Entry to Gaza, Deported

On June 15, Dr. Kristiaan de Baere, a cardiac intensivist and anesthesiologist from the University of Gent in Belgium, arrived at Ben Gurion airport to participate in the PCRF's most recent pediatric cardiac surgery mission to Shifa Hospital in Gaza. This was to be his second mission for the PCRF to Gaza. As soon as his Swiss Air flight landed, Dr. de Baere was pulled off the plane and detained in a prison cell for 12 hours, after which he was deported from the country without explanation. "I asked them several times why I was being treated like a criminal when I didn't do anything political and was coming here on a purely humanitarian medical mission," Dr. de Baere said from his cell in Ben Gurion by mobile phone. "They refused to answer and just said 'for security'." Dr. de Baere was to have led the Intensive Care Unit for the PCRF's multi-national pediatric cardiac surgery team working at Shifa Hospital. His ordeal underscores the tremendous risks that surgeons, nurses, and other medical personnel take in order to go to Palestine through PCRF and provide their crucial services at this time of crisis.

[5] Multi-National Surgical Team Saves Lives in Gaza

On June 13, a PCRF-sponsored team of surgeons and nurses from Italy and the U.S. crossed Erez Checkpoint into Gaza to begin a week of open-heart surgeries on Palestinian babies with congenital heart disease. Led by Dr. Giancarlo Crupi (cardiac surgeon) from Bergamo, Italy, the team consisted of Dr. Giovanni de Didee (anesthesiologist) and Silvana Crispi (perfusionist), both from Bergamo, as well as Dean Dyke (ICU nurse) from the University of Wisconsin Children's Hospital in Madison, and Betsy Tirado (ICU nurse) from Columbia Presbyterian Hospital in New York City. Dr. Alan Kerr, a senior cardiac surgeon (retired) from Greenlane Hospital in Auckland, New Zealand, who has been in Gaza for the past month performing open-heart surgeries, also took part in the mission. Dr. Kristiaan de Baere was to join the team on June 15 to help run the ICU as an intensivist, but was denied entry into Israel and deported from the country.

[6] U.S. Senator Acknowledges, Encourages PCRF

Senator Paul Sarbanes of Maryland penned a letter of thanks to the PCRF for its work in bringing a Palestinian baby (Ahmed Hammami) to the D.C. area for life-saving heart surgery earlier this year. The letter is posted here: http://www.pcrf.net/images/senate.jpg

[7] "A Hopeful Palestinian Boy"

Deya Ali is a 15-year-old boy from Nablus who was brought by the PCRF to undergo a series of surgeries in New Jersey after being shot by an Israeli settler near his home. The attack left him with serious damage to his stomach, liver, pancreas, bladder, and spinal cord. He has been in New Jersey for the past 5 months, and is making excellent progress. Today he is undergoing physical therapy sessions to help undo the spinal cord damage
which left him unable to walk on his own. As he prepares to go home, Deya writes the following letter to all those who opened their hearts and helped him to feel at home in the U.S.

Dear friends:

For all of you who have done their part to help me recover from the fateful bullet that not only shattered my dreams but also it mutilated my body, I send you my greetings and good wishes. To all the doctors, nurses, hospital staff, volunteers and visitors, I say thank you for your kindness and great human sprit.

As I begin to learn to walk again, I shall remember all of you with every step I take. Your generosity, kindness and decency has already left a lasting impression on me. I only hope to return your good deeds by being able to do the same for other helpless children- the many whose luck was not as good as mine.

I shall forever declare that there is still goodness in this world and that there remains good people who love to help others. I shall forever say that if more good people join hands, there will be peace.

I know my road to full recovery has just begun, but I have faith that with your continued help, I shall be granted another chance to lead a normal life. May God bless you all, my friends.

A hopeful Palestinian boy,

Deya Ali

PCRF-DC News
Spring 2003 (May), Number 2

IN THIS ISSUE:

[1] Report from the medical front lines in Gaza
[2] Washingtonian to volunteer with PCRF in Jenin, Nablus
[3] Volunteers needed in DC
[4] Ahmed goes home

[1] Report from the medical front lines in Gaza

In the following article, PCRF founder and president Steve Sosebee writes in detail about the life-threatening dangers encountered by a PCRF-sponsored plastic surgery team from Italy as they attempted to provide medical relief to children in southern Gaza last month. This was the first international plastic surgery mission ever to be sent to southern Gaza, and the Italian team, led by reconstructive surgeon Enrico Robotti, will return to Gaza this
November for another mission arranged by PCRF.

Read the article at: http://electronicintifada.net/v2/article1232.shtml

[2] Washingtonian to volunteer with PCRF in Jenin, Nablus

PCRF-DC chapter co-founder Daniel Quinn , a licensed clinical social worker with Arlington County public schools, will be volunteering his summer to provide training and consultation to PCRF field workers in Jenin and Nablus. We will be sharing periodic updates from him throughout the summer. Last summer, Dani spent two months volunteering his time and service in the Gaza Strip and West Bank, helping to launch the PCRF's child sponsorship program: http://www.pcrf.net/Sponsor/Sponsor.html

[3] Volunteers needed in DC

PCRF-DC is working on many concurrent projects that welcome additional volunteer support . Projects range from community and medical outreach to grant-writing and event planning. To learn about what's going on and how
you can be involved, contact Susan at skerin1@msn.com

[4] Ahmed goes home

On April 15, Ahmed Hammami went home to Nablus after spending two months in Washington and undergoing successful heart surgery. The PCRF once again wishes to extend its great appreciation for all those who reached out to help the family during their stay in our city.

In the photo below, Ahmed is pictured with his cardiac surgeon Dr. Greg DiRusso (left) and cardiologist Dr. Gerard Martin (right) of Children's National Medical Center. Both doctors generously donated their services to
treat Ahmed for a life-threatening heart disease called Tetralogy of Fallot.

PCRF-DC News
Spring 2003 (April), Number 1

IN THIS ISSUE:

[1] Ahmed's Surgery Update
[2] Farewell Picnic
[3] Special Thanks
[4] Palestine Awareness Week @ American U.

[1] Ahmed's Surgery Update

On Friday, March 7, Ahmed Hammami underwent open heart surgery at Children's Hospital, during which surgeons closed a large hole in his heart and opened what was a near-complete blockage of the artery leading to Ahmed's lungs.

Since then, Ahmed has been steadily recovering and will be ready to go home by the week of April 6. To view Ahmed's online photo album, visit http://groups.msn.com/RoulasPhotoAlbum/pcrfahmedmarch2003.msnw?Page=1

[2] Farewell Picnic

All are invited to a picnic on Sunday, April 6 to wish Ahmed well as he returns home to Nablus. This will also be your chance to meet members of the local PCRF chapter and learn how to support the PCRF's mission to help
more children like Ahmed. Many of you have expressed interest in volunteering with PCRF-DC on one of our current projects, so this will be your chance to learn more about what we're doing and to join the team.

The picnic will be held between 4 - 7 pm at the Ronald McDonald House , located at 1326 Quincy Street, NE. The closest Metro stop is Catholic University. For directions, write to dc-chapter@pcrf.net If you would like to contribute something, in lieu of baby gifts please bring your favorite dish to share, or consider a donation to PCRF.

[3] Special Thanks

PCRF-DC wishes to extend its overwhelming gratitude to all of you who reached out to Ahmed and his mother during their time in DC. Your house calls, hospital visits, museum outings, and shopping excursions have helped
to make this very difficult time pass more smoothly for Ahmed's family, and will not be easily forgotten. PCRF recognizes that its work would not be possible without the support of a concerned community like you. Thank you.

A special thanks goes to members of the D.C. chapter of the Network of Arab American Professionals for their continued support of PCRF, as well as to students of the Islamic Saudi Academy Girls' School for their generous gift.

[4] Palestine Awareness Week @ American U.

Palestine Awareness Week (PAW) will take place at American University from March 28 through April 4, 2003. Events will concentrate on the social, political, cultural, and economic elements of the Palestinian struggle for
independence. PAW will include speakers, discussions, documentaries, and cultural representations through poetry, dance, and music. More information is available at http://www.sjp-dc.com/

Palestinian Culture Day will take place on Friday, April 4 on the quad, which is located at the center of campus, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Make sure to stop by the PCRF-DC table to pick up some information.