Our Refugee Fund actively supports two key partners – the National Syrian Project for Prosthetic Limbs (NSPPL) and Sea Watch - who are doing essential work to provide support on the ground. Our fund focuses on three main aspects: search and rescue, amputees and mental health support.
Rayan was just five years old when she lost both legs following a car bomb in Zamalka, Syria. She suffered severe bone and nerve damage as well as horrific injuries to her abdomen and lower back. Both legs had to be amputated to save her life, and she spent two months in intensive care.Rayan also suffered severe psychological wounds that led her pull out her hair and self-harm. In a further cruel twist, an airstrike overhead caused more problems when rubble fell on her. Eventually, she and her father left Syria and arrived in Turkey where she underwent a series of treatments. While adapting to life with two prosthetic legs, Rayan will need further plastic surgery on her abdomen in future, as well as continuing therapy. Meanwhile, five years on, her father’s only wish is for his daughter regain happiness and live like others her age.