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First Jordanian Conference for Mental Health UOSSM and UOSSM USA participated in the first Jordanian Conference for Mental Health titled “Towards Better Mental Health for All” in Amman, Jordan. The conference was coordinated and sponsored by the University of Jordan and featured the University’s President, Dr. Nather Obidat. The conference lasted for three days and brought together professionals, researchers, scholars, and workers in the field of mental health from Jordan and the Arab region. There were 33 scientific discussion sessions and 130 scientific papers presented, in addition to 21 workshops, in Arabic and English, aimed at sharing best practices and skills. The goal of the conference was to provide guidance in implementing mental health within their respective health systems and help elevate the professional and scientific levels in the field of mental health. |
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Supporting Syrian Civil Defense Humanitarian Workers The White Helmets workers are constantly exposed to traumatic and tragic situations through bombings, accidents, and most recently, natural disasters, such as the Turkey/Syria Earthquake. They witness horrible deaths, injuries, destruction, and human suffering on a daily basis. All of these traumatic experiences can severely affect the psychological and emotional health of these dedicated workers. With the support of the World Health Organization, UOSSM is providing the White Helmets with psychological support to improve their mental and emotional health. This will help them navigate stressful situations and stress, enhance their ability to adapt to extremely difficult circumstances, and empower them with the necessary knowledge and skills to cope with difficult times. |
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Participating in Brussels VII Conference – “Supporting the Future of Syria and the Region” Dr. Ahmad Aldbis represented UOSSM at the Brussels VII Conference, “Supporting the Future of Syria and the Region,” held on June 14-15. The main objective of the conference was to ensure continued support for the Syrian people, both in Syria and beyond, by mobilizing the international community to support a comprehensive and credible political solution to the Syrian conflict in line with UN Security Council Resolution 2254. |
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Launching a Scientific Training of Trainers Project MIDAD Center for Studies (MCS) and UOSSM launched the “Scientific Research Methodology – Training of Trainers (TOT) Course” project – which is part of the research project to strengthen the health system in Syria (R4HSSS). This initiative is targeted at postgraduate students and faculty members at Free Aleppo University. It aims to improve their scientific research skills and train them to write scientific research papers at a high professional level. In accordance with the latest scientific standards and controls, the initiative will also provide effective training skills so trained students can later train other students. Once complete, participants will obtain a certificate from King’s College London and participating entities. |
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Learning to Walk for the First Time – A Story of Inspiration Amal has suffered from a genetic metabolic disease since birth, which has affected her development and prevented her from moving. She began receiving medical treatment at the UOSSM Physiotherapy Center in Kilis, Turkey, in December 2022. During this time, she was not only provided with access to physical therapy treatment but also supplies such as splints, including a medical boot, knee stabilizer, and a wheelchair. With each passing month, her back, legs, and hand muscles were strengthened through these sessions. Thanks to the contributions from supporters like you, it has made all the difference! We are thrilled to share that Amal can now walk on her own without any difficulty or the help of her mother! The road to recovery was long and difficult but it couldn’t have been made possible without your support. We are very appreciative of your generosity. If you would like to help more children like Amal, please make your gift here. We are so proud of our healthcare team and Amal’s life-changing milestone! Together, we continue to save lives and build hope.
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Special Edition Newsletter: Earthquake Relief Update |
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A little over three months have passed since the devastating earthquake that claimed the lives of over 50,000 people, injured thousands, and displaced tens of thousands. Many of those injured continue to receive care in our hospitals with extensive and complex injuries. Many people lost limbs and now have to adjust to their new bodies. And many children became orphans, losing some or their entire families on that catastrophic day. We have been focusing on earthquake relief efforts since day one, providing urgent and emergency care in our 30 health facilities including 7 hospitals, 10 mobile clinics, transport and referrals through our 62 ambulances, and other services such as diagnostics, dialysis, and blood donation through our specialty centers. We wouldn’t have been able to accomplish any of this without supporters like you! We are so grateful! This is a special edition newsletter to share our work in earthquake relief since February 6. |
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Heartbreaking Story of Nour There are many sad cases that we have come across over the past 11 years. One of the most heartbreaking is that of 2 1/2 year old Nour. Her family was already a displaced family, living in difficult conditions, through years of war. On February 6, her whole world changed. The devastating earthquake not only killed her mother and 5 year old brother, but she was critically injured. She remained buried under the rubble for 60 hours until she was finally saved. Unfortunately, the damage had already been done. Nour had to have her right leg amputated. Her injuries were critical, as she suffers from crush syndrome, which caused her to lose a lot of tissue in her bottom. She has had to endure excruciating pain over the past two months. She had several surgeries, including reconstructive surgery, along with other treatment to help save her life. She has to be sedated to change the bandaging and dressing on her wounds. She continues to receive care for her injuries at Aqrabat Hospital.
Now Nour must learn to live without her mother and learn to walk with the aid of a prosthetic limb. There are many children that became orphans from the earthquake. Many of those children are still in our hospitals receiving care. We are working on a project to help support these orphans – stay tuned to learn more!
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UOSSM Immediate Response to Earthquake On February 6, UOSSM medical facilities began to respond immediately to the earthquake. Our hospitals became overwhelmed with patients. Many injuries were life-threatening as doctors and staff tried to save as many lives as possible. Our other health care facilities were also providing care, while we deployed our 10 mobile clinics to reach hardest hit areas with primary care integrated with mental health services. We have since provided over 81,000 consultations to over 52,000 patients, and provided around 1500 surgeries, the majority of which were major surgeries. In addition, we distributed around 1200 units of blood, provided around 4000 diagnostic services, and transported and referred over 3700 patients through our ambulance system.
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UOSSM Board Members Go on Medical Missions to Northwest Syria Several UOSSM board members responded to the earthquake by leading medical missions to northwest Syria to provide their expertise and support. Dr. Monzer Yazji, co-founder of UOSSM USA, went to Syria for two days to witness the damage, assess UOSSM’s response and needs, evaluate hospitals and medical facilities, and provide medical care, and victim support in northwest Syria. |
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Despite Becoming Victims UOSSM Staff Continue to Serve Earthquake Victims Many UOSSM staff became victims themseleves in the devastating earthquake in northwest Syria and Turkey. Many staff lost family members, were wounded, and became homeless. Despite this, our staff continued to support victims of the earthquake. |
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Partnering with David Nott Foundation and Action for Humanity on Medical Mission in NW Syria Action for Humanity and the David Nott Foundation partnered with UOSSM in a medical mission that provided medical support and surgical trainings to doctors in northwest Syria. In five days, over 250 consultations were provided and 81 complicated surgeries were performed, which require orthopedic and reconstructive surgery in Aqrabat Hospital. The majority of the patients are earthquake victims that continue to suffer from their horrible injuries. The need continues to be so great. But there is always hope… |
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Long Term UOSSM Earthquake Relief Plans To this day, there are many earthquake victims receiving care in our hospitals. Over the next several months, and based on funding, UOSSM plans to:– Provide First Aid and Emergency Health Services– Provide Lifesaving Assistance to Earthquake Victims (including UOSSM staff): Food, water, shelter, clothing, etc.– Expand Emergency Surgeries Conducted at Hospitals.– Distribute Medicines, Medical Supplies, and Consumables.– Enhance Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Response.– Conduct Medical Missions.– Provide Training and Capacity Building.– Renovate Affected Health FacilitiesIn addition, after the earthquake, there were many children that became orphans in a matter of minutes, we are currently working on a project to provide complete support to these children to enable them to have a promising future. Stay tuned for more details! |
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Providing Dental Surgeries to Special Needs Children in Jordan
Families of special needs children in Jordan often find it difficult to provide their children with the dental care that they desperately need. Unfortunately, because of the challenges related to caring for children with special needs, some other basic health needs can get pushed aside. Even if the families are able to find dental care for their children with special needs, it can prove to be rather costly and out of reach. But as part of UOSSM USA’s Surgeries project, which aims to provide a variety of surgeries, free of charge, to refugee, needy, and other underserved families in Jordan, we recently identified three special needs children who needed costly dental services: Asma, a 5-year-old with Down Syndrome, from Jordan; Yousef, a 6-year-old with autism, from Gaza Strip who resides in Jordan; and Tala, a 10-year-old with Down Syndrome, from Jordan.
In November, we coordinated with the Director of Al-Hannan Hospital, Bassam Alzuobi, and Dr. Serena Abu Dayyeh to provide complete dental services in just one session to three special needs children, under full anesthesia.
All three children had multiple cavities and other dental problems but could not receive the dental treatment without complete anesthesia. Their families were so grateful and overjoyed seeing that their children’s pain was alleviated, and they could now eat pain-free! You can watch the heartwarming video here!
Thanks to these surgical missions, we were able to ultimately improve the health and overall wellbeing of those children who would not otherwise have the access or the means to these vital surgical operations/procedures.
Thanks to the support of donors like you, we are able to reach these families and provide them with the support services that they need!
Together we are saving lives and building hope.
One of Most Important Specialty Hospitals in Northwest Syria
UOSSM-supported Aqrabat Orthopedic and Reconstructive Surgery Specialty Hospital is widely considered one of the most important specialty hospitals in northwest Syria. The hospital provides specialty care, along with medical clinics, radiology, surgery, and emergency departments, and is in the vicinity of displacement camps in Atma, Qah, Aqrabat, and Kafrloseen, in addition to nearby cities and villages.
Each month, approximately 950 major surgeries and 700 minor surgeries are performed in the hospital.
During the last two days of 2022, UOSSM USA distributed 500 food baskets filled with food essentials to 500 families (~2,500 people) in Rukban Camp in southern Syria. Located on the border of southern Syria and Jordan, this makeshift camp has 12,000 displaced people, 80% of whom are children and women. More than half of those families are in dire need of food essentials. The food baskets will help protect the families from hunger and boost their immunity to help fight diseases. You can learn more about Rukban Camp here.
Supporting New Healthcare Center in Idlib
UOSSM is supporting a new healthcare center in Hafarsaja, Idlib, which will help reduce the gap in medical care in the area. The center includes clinics in general care, obstetrics, dental care, wound care, and a pharmacy. In addition, the center will have three community health teams and two psychosocial support workers.
In collaboration with Bareeq Education Center, UOSSM USA held an open house on Wednesday, December 7th from 10 am to 3 pm, as part of our participation in the #16Days of Activism Against Gender Based Violence (GBV) campaign. Several NGO partners were invited to participate in the event including Syrian American Medical Society (SAMS), Danish Refugee Council (DRC), International Medical Corps (IMC), and Tamkeen. The event was led by women and attended by over 100 women and girls (ages 14-55), including Syrian refugees and host communities. It included several GBV awareness sessions led by our partners to include SAMS, DRC, Tamkeen, and IMC. The event also included a teen drawing session and a mini bazaar for women.
Girls and women walked away from the event understanding that they have the power to succeed…that they have the power to walk away from abuse…and that they know how to help others in abusive relationships. You can watch a video about the event here!
One afternoon, Ahmad and his brother were tending their flock of sheep. As they were herding the sheep, they ran into something that caught their attention. They picked it up to see what it was and began playing around with their new “toy” when suddenly it blew up in their hands. The “toy” was actually a shell from a previous bombing that had not exploded.
Both brothers were severely injured and taken to the hospital. Ahmad’s legs were broken and injured so severely that his bone was exposed., His brother was wounded in the abdomen. Both boys had to undergo surgery although their injuries were thankfully not life-threatening.
Ahmad’s brother made a full recovery, but Ahmad’s injuries were much more complicated. His left leg healed after surgery, but the bones on his right leg were injured extensively. Ahmad was referred to Aqrabat Hospital for specialized care. Ahmad had to undergo several specialty procedures for his complex injuries, including reconstructive surgery which useed skin grafts to cover the exposed bone. Then he had to have the Vacuum Assisted Closure (VAC) device (typically used for severe or slow healing wounds) in two different stages for two weeks to remove excess liquids.
The team at Aqrabat Hospital is still caring for Ahmad until he makes a full recovery.
Thanks to donors like YOU, children like Ahmad have access to these critical medical services.
Together, we are saving lives and building hope.
UOSSM USA Receives Federal Award!
We are excited to announce that UOSSM USA was awarded a grant by the U.S. Department of State to support educational enrichment integrated with psychosocial support services (PSS) to refugee and underserved children in Jordan! Working in collaboration with Bareeq Education and Development in Amman, this after-school program will assist 400 children in becoming better prepared to assimilate into local school systems.
UOSSM USA President, Dr. Khaula Sawah expressed, “We are honored to build upon our partnership with the Bareeq Center through this opportunity to continue enriching the education of children in Amman and providing the psychosocial support they so desperately need. Many of these children are Syrian refugees who have witnessed unimaginable atrocities, the loss of loved ones, displacement, and other traumatic experiences. Through this collaboration, we hope to empower these children to overcome their trauma. With the support of the U.S. Department of State, these children will not only receive equal access to education but also receive the nurturance they need to improve their overall wellbeing and contribute positively to our global society. Children are our future – they are our hope for a better tomorrow. We are very pleased to be a part of this transformational journey which will help them heal as they grow into adolescence and adulthood.”
The Spread of Cholera Continues in Northwest Syria
Cholera continues to spread in northwest Syria. As of October 31, at least 36 people have died from cholera in northern Syria since early September. The outbreak may be tied to unclean water from the Euphrates River which is used for drinking and watering crops (resulting in food contamination), and improper sewage among displacement camps.
UOSSM is responding with preventative measures for mild to moderate cases in northwest Syria to include the provision of:
Promoting Dialogue on World Mental Health Day
On World Mental Health Day (October 10), the UOSSM Psychiatric and Mental Illness Hospital in Sarmada organized an awareness-raising session on the importance of making mental health care accessible to everyone.
The various activities presented the severe effects of the conflict on the mental health of civilians. Through discussions, role-playing, and success stories, the life of someone with a mental illness was portrayed.
The event also included discussions and life experiences among the attendees and mental health workers, which deepened the importance of mental health and shed light on misconceptions about mental health and the importance of addressing the causes that lead to mental illness.
The training helps doctors handle and treat critical cases in hospitals, increasing the survival rate of patients with life-threatening diseases. Patients with life-threatening diseases often experience rapid deterioration of their health and unexpected side effects during treatment, which requires constant monitoring and immediate, and effective response by the medical staff.
This training is designed for internal medicine residents and family medicine residents who work in emergency and intensive care departments in hospitals that provide internal medicine services.
Even though parents are always fearful that something might happen to their child, it is important to allow them to experience things on their own. Being overly protective deprives a child of many opportunities to develop and grow. After completing the sessions, Ismael’s mother understood the importance of this and how to help him develop and grow in a positive way. She emphasized, “I gained so much knowledge from the program, I learned great ideas on creating fun activities and games with things we have around the house. I had no idea how effective these activities were for my child’s development!”
Thank you to our supporters who enable families like this to reach the programs they need, in such difficult circumstances, every single day.
Together, we continue to lives and build hope!
Providing the Gift of Sight to Syrian Refugees in Jordan
Vision impairment or vision loss can be a major burden on anyone, but can be especially difficult if that person does not have the means or access for the surgery to repair it. In September, UOSSM USA provided ophthalmic surgeries to Syrian refugees in Jordan who were experiencing moderate to complete vision loss.
Most of these patients have been suffering silently for years with continued deterioration of vision. Led by Dr. Muhammad Huwari, the team successfully performed four cataract (Phaco+iol) surgeries and one cross linking surgery. One patient was a pregnant woman who was in danger of losing her sight since doctors were refusing to do the surgery until after she delivered her baby – out of fear that the x-ray could harm the fetus. She struggled every day, but after delivering her healthy baby nine months later, she was able to have the cross-linking procedure and can now see again!
The ophthalmic surgeries are part of the UOSSM USA Surgeries project which aims to provide a variety of surgeries, free of charge, to refugee, needy, and other underserved families in Jordan, who would otherwise not have access or the means for these vital surgical operations. This will help improve their health and overall wellbeing, and alleviate their suffering.
Growing Fears of Cholera Outbreak in Northwest Syria
Fears of a Cholera outbreak are growing among the health sector in northwest Syria. With an already strained health care system due to years of war, attacks on healthcare facilities, and most recently, COVID, these fears have become a reality with the first two Cholera cases confirmed on September 17. This has now become an imminent danger, putting vulnerable lives at risk. The outbreak may be tied to unclean water from the Euphrates River which is used for drinking and watering crops (resulting in food contamination), and improper sewage among displacement camps.
Patients are experiencing acute watery diarrhea, vomiting with fever, and severe dehydration – all symptoms consistent with Cholera.
As of October 20, there were 14,844 suspected cases, and 27 deaths in northeast Syria, according to EWARN Syria. While in northwest Syria, there were 1,755 total suspected cases and 2 deaths in northwest Syria as well as 374 cases and 2 deaths in Nabaa Al Salam (Peace Spring). These numbers continue to rise.
UOSSM is responding with preventative measures in northwest Syria for mild to moderate cases including the provision of:
The CHWs will be responsible for:
– Providing awareness messages
– Distributing hygiene kits and oral rehydration solutions
– Referring suspected cases
For severe cases, UOSSM seeks to establish Cholera Treatment Units (CTU), treatment units attached to existing health facilities in northwest Syria.
Fifth Medical Mission to Ukraine for Surgical Trainings
UOSSM completed its fifth medical mission in late August with surgical trainings for surgeons. In partnership with the David Nott Foundation, UOSSM conducted two Hostile Environment Surgical Trainings (HEST) targeting 74 surgeons of various specialties who work in hospitals receiving critical trauma injuries in eastern Ukraine.
The trainings were carried out in coordination with the Ukrainian Ministry of Health’s Scientific and Practical Disaster Management Center.
UOSSM will continue to respond as needed in Ukraine with vital surgical trainings. You can learn more about our work in Ukraine by clicking here.
Support our work in Ukraine by clicking here.
In mid-September, a UOSSM team went on a medical mission to Pakistan to assess the damage and to help support the people with medical and humanitarian aid. The catastrophic flooding caused a humanitarian crisis.
Approximately 33 million people have been affected with extremely limited access to food, clean water, shelter and medical care. Over 1.7 million homes were damaged, leaving thousands of displaced families. The unsanitary conditions have caused the spread of skin infections and other diseases such as Malaria and Cholera, especially among the most vulnerable, children and women. UOSSM is in the planning phase of supporting the people of Pakistan with a mobile clinic to provide access to desperately needed medical care. Watch this video to learn more about the crisis in Pakistan and UOSSM’s response.
You can support our work to reach those in Pakistan and other areas of crisis by clicking here.
On Sunday, September 18, the Idlib Health Directorate and UOSSM held a graduation ceremony for 43 students (14 females, 29 males) who earned the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) nursing degree.
This degree program is part of the Research for Health Systems Strengthening in the Northwest of Syria (R4HSSS) project and is the first of its kind in the area. The degree program aims to ensure that the health sector has a wide variety of qualified, specialized nurses available to provide specialty care.
12-year-old Weam witnessed many traumatic events throughout the war in Syria, but the one that really affected her mental health was after her school was bombed while she was in class. She still remembers the scary sounds, one of her classmates passing out, and just the overall terrifying experience. As a result of this trauma, Weam became afraid of everything. She was not only afraid of the dark, but also of anyone who would talk with her.
Weam visited Al Bab Mental Health Center, where she received treatment to help her process and cope with her fears. Through the TRT (Teaching Recovery Techniques) for children treatment plan, we are happy to report that Weam has begun the healing process and is no longer afraid.
Countless children have been traumatized with what they have witnessed in Syria over the past 11 years.
Supporters like YOU can help them access mental health services, which will allow them to heal from these traumatic experiences and live more productive lives.
Together, we are saving lives and building hope.
Tonsillectomies for Syrian Refugee Children in Jordan
Even the most minor of illnesses can become a major burden on refugee families who don’t have the financial means to get the medical care needed in their host country. There is nothing more painful than watching your child suffer without the ability to alleviate their suffering.
To help ease the suffering of the children, and their families, UOSSM USA provided eight tonsillectomies in August, to Syrian refugee children in Jordan, who have been suffering from illness, infections, high fevers, and difficulty sleeping. Four of the patients were from Al-Emirati Camp and four were from Amman.
Parents were put at ease knowing their children will no longer suffer, and the children will heal and lead better lives without constantly being sick.
Local News Features Work of Dr. Khaula Sawah, President of UOSSM USA
HIRS Telemedicine Training to Service Providers in Northern Syria
In August, UOSSM provided physical training to 37 healthcare providers including doctors, nurses, ICU technicians, cardiologists, mental health providers, and data entry staff from four local hospitals. This training will qualify healthcare providers to continue online consultation with qualified health professionals and ensure that they can become proficient in these technologies to deliver medical services for more complex cases.
The telemedicine service is part of the Health Integrated Resilience System HIRS and provides mental health care services through Sarmada and Al-Bab Mental Health Hospitals, pediatric care through the Al-Ekhaa Hospital, and cardiac care through the Atma Charity Hospital.
These events were attended by community leaders, leaders of the Dayr Hasan displacement camp, members of local organizations, staff of the health and education sectors, and partners of the Ahlen Simsim Project.
In 2021, the program provided services to over 1200 children between the ages of three and eight. The goal of the center is restoring hope and opportunity to a generation of children affected by crisis, and to enhance their wellbeing, functionality, emotional and social skills of children in conflict.
Najam was entered into the Teaching Recovery Techniques (TRT) program which teaches children how to cope with their feelings and emotions from past experiences. The program helped Najam begin the slow process of healing. He gained the skills needed to cope with his feelings and emotions and is finally on the road to recovery. With his determination and the support of the mental health staff, Najam will continue to heal and ultimately have a chance at a better quality of life.
Like Najam, there are countless Syrian children who have experienced unimaginable trauma and continue to suffer in silence. Supporters like you enable Syrian children and their families begin the healing process for a more promising future.
Together, we are saving lives and building hope.
Fighting Hunger through Adahi/Qurbani Meat Distribution
UOSSM USA distributed Adahi/Qurbani meat to 250 displaced families in Rukban Camp along the Syrian/Jordanian border. Around 12,000 displaced people, 80% of whom are children and women, are living in this makeshift camp. More than half of those families are in dire need with extremely limited access to food, clean water, and medical care. You can help us reach more families with support by clicking here.
UOSSM USA also distributed Adahi/Qurbani meat to 184 needy and underserved families in the Cincinnati area in partnership with Casablanca Market, thanks to a grant award from Islamic Relief USA (IRUSA).
During this annual tradition, we were able to continue building hope for those in need!
Exhibiting Art “Through Their Eyes”
On July 4th, UOSSM held its second annual art exhibit entitled, “Let’s See Through Their Eyes” in the city of Al Bab. The gallery displayed artwork and handmade crafts by patients of the local mental health hospital.
Over 80 different pieces of art including drawings, paintings, paperwork, knitted items, calligraphy, and other art pieces were displayed.
Their artwork helps patients develop a sense of importance and pride, thus improving their mental health and overall wellbeing.
Operating a New Hospital in Idlib
UOSSM recently signed an agreement with OCHA to operate Qunya Hospital in Idlib.
Located in a highly prioritized area within the vicinity of Idlib, Jisr Al Shughour, and Qunya, the hospital is well equipped with important medical equipment and includes a vaccination room that provides routine vaccines and the COVID-19 vaccine. In addition, there is a special incinerator for waste management.
The hospital provides medical consultations to around 7,500 patients a month.
Over the past 11 years, the electrical infrastructure and network in Syria have suffered immense damages due to ongoing violence. Through the UOSSM technical team, which leads the Health Resilience Program, six health facilities will be powered by the Solar Photovoltaic System by September 2022.
The main goal of this intervention is to ensure the continuity of service within the medical facilities, through clean and advanced technologies “solar photovoltaic systems.” This will reduce operating expenses (expected to be over 85%), and secure energy during power outages, or diesel shortages.
This will ultimately increase resilience and the independence from these factors (fuel and power) within Syria’s health care system.
On July 5th, UOSSM held a ceremony to launch the “Amal and Takamul” (Hope and Integration) Project in Syria with the purpose of establishing a mental health department in the Free Aleppo University. Attendees included representatives from the European Union, Free Aleppo University, the Syrian Board of Medical Specialties (SBOMS), and other donors and partners.
The residency program will last for four years at the UOSSM Center for Mental Health in Northwest Syria and will include a full curriculum for mental health care established by the Arab Council for Mental Health Care.
Miracle Story: Miraculous Survival of 3-Year-Old Girl
3-year-old Safa almost died by drowning. She fell into a sewer but by the time her family reached her in the sewage, she was unconscious. Her parents thought they had lost their beautiful child but they did not give up hope.
Safa was rushed to the recently opened Al-Andalus Hospital (see “New Beginnings” story below) where doctors literally saved her life. After being in the ICU on a ventilator for three days, Safa miraculously regained consciousness and was able to breathe on her own. After a few more days, Safa was given a clean bill of health and went home to her family. What a miracle story!
We are so grateful that this story had a happy ending. Thanks to our supporters, children like Safa have access to vital, lifesaving, dignified, free, quality medical and mental health care. Through your kindness, YOU are helping ensure that these children and their families receive the healthcare they deserve. Because of your generous gift, children like Safa can become stronger both physically and emotionally, paving the way towards a healthier and more promising future.
Together, we continue to save lives and build hope!
Fourth Surgical Medical Mission in Ukraine
In early June, UOSSM completed its 4th medical mission in Ukraine, in partnership with the David Nott Foundation (DNF). The 2-week surgical trainings, Hostile Environment Surgical Trainings (HEST) were led by world-renowned trauma surgeon Dr. David Nott, and his team from the UK. Recognized as the “Indiana Jones of surgery”, Dr. Nott often volunteers to work in disaster and war zones. Dr. Nott partnered with UOSSM in the past to provide these vital trainings to Syrian doctors in Syria and Turkey, training them to save lives from war wounds and injuries.
The recent HEST trainings in Ukraine included one three-day training in Dnipro, with 38 surgeons, and another three-day training in Kharkiv, where 30 surgeons received the intensive training course. One complicated surgery was also performed on a patient with severe war wounds.
Dr. Khaula Sawah and Dr. Monzer Yazji, both co-founders of UOSSM USA, joined the surgical trainings. In addition, Dr. Sawah met with the director of the Ukrainian Ministry of Public Health Center of Emergency Medical Aid and Disaster Medicine, Dr. Vitaliy Kryliuk, who was very appreciative of the work UOSSM, along with DNF, is doing on the ground in Ukraine. Dr. Kruylik emphasized the importance to provide doctors and surgeons with more advanced, structured, vital trainings, and to provide Training of Trainers (ToTs) courses to advance the skills of Ukrainian surgeons to handle and treat war zone injuries in particular on the frontlines to train fellow Ukrainian surgeons.
To learn more about our medical work in Ukraine click here.
Click here to support upcoming medical missions in Ukraine.
New Beginnings: UOSSM Opens Al-Andalus Hospital in Idlib
On June 28th, UOSSM officially opened Al-Andalus Hospital (formerly Abeen Hospital) which includes specialty clinics, operating rooms, and rehabilitation centers. The hospital serves a catchment area of 185,000 people. It is located in the vicinity of 67 camps of displacement with over 96,000 internally displaced persons. As such, it is vital for providing critical medical services to those who need it most in these hard-to-reach areas.
The hospital specializes in general, laparoscopic, urinary, and gynecological surgeries, and has other specialty departments including reproductive health, mental health, lab, and radiology. In addition, surgical, pediatric, gynecological, urinary care, and general surgeries are provided. The lab, radiology, emergency, and labor and delivery departments operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Via the Health Integrated Resilience System (HIRS) Telemedicine Platform, online consultations are still ongoing between local service providers and medical experts at two major mental health hospitals (Sarmada in Idlib, and Al-Bab in Aleppo). In addition, online consultations are provided in both Al-Ekhaa Hospital (Pediatrics Department) and Atmeh Charity Hospital (Intensive Care Unit).
Telemedicine helps reduce the gap among qualified health professionals (ICU, MH, NICU, and PICU) as it provides opportunities for consultations, educational opportunities, and mentorship with other specialists (diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up for complex cases).
The Electric Vehicle (EV) continues to transport vaccines from cold rooms to primary healthcare facilities, in cooperation with the Syria Immunization Group (SIG). Each month, the EV distributes 12,000 vaccine doses.
In addition, the EV is vital for transporting and transferring COVID-19 patients, pregnant women, and children under one year old. As part of the referral network, the EV will also begin to transport patients in the near future.
The EV uses a lithium battery charged at health facilities powered by solar energy, making it 100% electric. The use of the EV is expected to result in long-term significant savings by reducing dependence on fuel and strengthening the health system.
Impact Story: Expression Through Art
Shaimaa was suffering both mentally and physically due to many issues including hearing and speech impairment, depression, and anxiety. She was sad and hopeless with extremely low self-esteem. Being displaced only made things worse in her young life.
Shaimaa visited UOSSM Turkey’s Special Needs Rehabilitation (SNR) center but could not receive any speech therapy until she first received a hearing aid. During her initial consultation, the psychologist observed that Shaimaa was dealing with many emotional issues and began art therapy sessions to help her overcome this.
A young, brilliant artist, Shaimaa expressed herself and her emotions through her artwork. Sad pictures reflected her melancholy feelings while bright and colorful art reflected her happier days. Through the art therapy sessions, Shaimaa’s self-esteem improved. After 7-8 sessions at our center, a significant improvement in her condition was noticed – she felt accomplished and stronger. You can watch a video about Shaimaa here!
Yet, there are countless other Syrian children like Shaimaa throughout Syria, Turkey and Jordan, who are also feeling hopeless and alone. They too are in need of medical and mental healthcare services. With YOUR generous gifts, YOU are helping ensure these children receive the healthcare they deserve. Thanks to your support, these children can become stronger both physically and emotionally, paving the way towards a healthier and more promising future.
Together, we are saving lives and building hope.
You can click here to continue to support children like Shaimaa!
Medical and Psychological Aspects of War Workshop
On May 26th, UOSSM Ukraine, in participation with the International Academy of Personal Management, organized and presented its, “Medical and Psychological Aspects of War” lecture and training workshop to over 25 doctors and volunteers.
The hybrid program sessions were offered both in-person and virtual formats focused on the following topics:
Upon completion of the training session, all participants were presented with certificates of completion.
To learn more about our medical work in Ukraine click here.
Click here to support our work in Ukraine.
Continuing Nutrition Services in Northwest Syria
Malnutrition continues to threaten the lives of children in displacement camps in northwest Syria where malnourishment touches 1 out of every 5 children in Idlib and 1 in 4 children in Aleppo.
UOSSM continues to respond as nutrition teams visit areas of displacement, screening children for malnutrition. Acute malnutrition cases are treated on the spot, while parents/guardians are provided with educational materials and advice on how to maintain their child at a healthy weight. Severe malnutrition cases are referred to area hospitals or clinics for more urgent care.The nutrition teams follow up on a regular basis with the child until he/she reaches a healthy weight.
Feeding Orphans, Displaced, and Needy Families in Ramadan
During the month of April (which coincided with the month of Ramadan), we were able to reach hundreds of orphans, refugees, and displaced families in Syria and Jordan by providing them with warm Iftar meals. This was made possible through the support of Hathi Hayati, a local organization that supports needy and displaced and needy families with shelter, food and special projects
Click here to watch one of the Iftar dinner videos in Jordan for orphans and their families – which will warm your heart!
In this month of reflection, we would like to convey how grateful we are for your support – we could not do this life-changing work without YOU!
Together, we truly are saving lives and building hope!
Providing Food to the Underserved and Needy in Cincinnati
Islamic Relief USA awarded a grant to UOSSM USA for the distribution of Ramadan food baskets to needy and underserved families in the Cincinnati area during Ramadan. In partnership with the Islamic Association of Cincinnati (IAC) – Clifton Mosque, UOSSM USA was able to distribute 80 food baskets to 75 families through its food pantry which runs year round.
This would not have been possible without the amazing support of our partners and volunteers! Thank you!
Surgical Medical Mission in Ukraine
On April 2nd -12th, UOSSM USA, in partnership with British renowned war doctor, Dr. David Nott of the David Nott Foundation, led a surgical medical mission which provided training workshops to doctors, and critical surgeries to patients affected by the war in Ukraine. Dr. David Nott, along with Dr. Monzer Yazji, Dr. Ahmad Dbais and Dr. Mohammed Zaidiye all contributed and coordinated in the surgical medical mission.
Throughout the 10 days, the medical mission team visited major hospitals where complex reconstructive and plastic surgeries were performed on victims of attacks while doctors observed and were provided with training on treating injured victims of war and war weapons. Click here to read our full press release on the surgical medical mission.
Dr. Monzer Yazji, co-founder of UOSSM USA stated, “As Dr. Nott and I were visiting hospitals in Ukraine, we witnessed very similar severe injuries to the ones we witnessed in Syria. It was harrowing to see this type of history repeat itself and victims with the same types of horrible injuries.” Dr. Yazji was interviewed by Dr. Sanjay Gupta and CNN about the medical mission in Ukraine. Click here to watch the full CNN report!
There are still countless others who require medical attention. As a result, another medical mission is being planned in June. Click here to support our medical mission in Ukraine.
Continuing Services in Sarmada Mental Health Hospital
UOSSM signed an agreement to continue providing a complete package of mental health services through the Sarmada Mental Health Hospital, and two mental health mobile clinics, beginning on May 1, 2022.
The hospital is the only center that treats mental and psychological disorders in northwest Syria. In 2021 the hospital and mobile clinics had 3048 beneficiaries, and provided 6928 consultations.
Training Center for SBOMS
After a committee from the Syrian Board of Medical Specialties (SBOMS) visited the Al Andalus Hospital, it announced the decision to use the hospital as a training center specializing in pediatrics and general surgery.
The hospital, which follows all standards and guidelines required by specialized authorities and councils will provide training to local resident pediatricians and general surgeons, building and strengthening their capacity.
Overcoming Health Care Service Challenges in Syria
Despite many challenges, UOSSM continues to provide primary, secondary, and tertiary health care services to the most vulnerable and needy families through 6 hospitals, 14 primary health care centers, 7 specialty centers, and 3 mobile clinics in northwest Syria. All centers follow strict prevention and protection guidelines adopted by the World Health Organization (WHO).
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