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Born in the Time of War

Mohammed Zaloum was born on November 2, 2023 in the city of Hebron. His life was at high risk from the start, as his mother, Enas, went into labor prematurely at just 25 weeks gestation. Mohammed weighed only 650 grams at birth.

In Hebron, no incubators were available, crucial for his survival. His parents, Odai (29) and Enas (28), already endured the heartbreak of two miscarriages after their first child, five-year-old Remin. Saving Mohammed was imperative for them.

After a tense wait for over one hour, the family learned that an incubator was available at Caritas Baby Hospital (CBH) in Bethlehem. An ambulance, accompanied by a medical team and Odai, transported Mohammed to the hospital, leaving Enas behind for further medical care.

Under normal circumstances, the journey from Hebron to Bethlehem takes about half an hour by car. However, following the outbreak of war on October 7, numerous roadblocks, and checkpoints, imposed by the Israeli Occupation Forces in the West Bank significantly obstructed movement between the Palestinian communities, even for ambulances. The medical crew navigated alternative unpaved roads but was stopped at a checkpoint where the Israeli army denied passage and issued threats.

For Mohammed, every second counted. Timely and appropriate treatment of premature babies is essential to minimize short-term health risks and long-term developmental delays. After half an hour, a second ambulance arrived to receive the baby from the other side of the checkpoint. The medical crew carried Mohammed on foot, ensuring a manual supply of oxygen.

Upon arrival at CBH, Mohammed was in critical condition and was immediately connected to a high-parameter mechanical ventilator, providing 100% oxygen. Enas saw her newborn three days later. She described her feelings: “The moment I saw him, I touched him with my finger and he grabbed it. I knew he would become a strong boy”. Despite the movement restrictions, the parents frequently traveled from Hebron to CBH, knowing their presence would support Mohammed’s recovery.

Due to the severity of his case, Mohammed remained on the mechanical ventilator longer than expected. He was also treated for Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA), a heart condition where a blood vessel in a baby’s heart fails to close after birth. Gradually, he improved and transitioned to non-invasive ventilation, eventually breathing without any external assistance.

To support Mohammed’s development, a feeding therapist regularly worked with him on orofacial stimulation until he could be nursed. Enas, a positive and enlightened mother, constantly read about preterm birth and ways to help her child. She requested to do Kangaroo Care (skin-to-skin contact) with Mohammed, which improves survival and health outcomes for preterm babies. She also remained committed to breastfeeding, pumping and sending her milk to Mohammed.

After 143 days, on March 24, 2024, Mohammed was discharged with a weight of 3460 grams. Except for needing further ophthalmic treatment at a specialized medical facility, he was in good health. Dr. Amal, the CBH neonatologist, stated, “Being able to give Mohammed a chance to live is the reason we work”.

The family expressed immense gratitude to CBH and the medical team who accompanied Mohammed throughout his treatment. Odai shared: “I am truly grateful for the exceptional care provided here. CBH prioritizes the well-being of the patient. We were always updated on Mohammed’s condition and completely involved in the treatment plan”.

Enas confirmed her commitment to continue seeking medical care for Mohammed at CBH in the future. The baby regularly visits for checkups to ensure his proper growth. Enas was also trained by the physiotherapy team on exercises to support Mohammed’s full recovery and development.

When asked about their fears and hopes for Mohammed, Enas expressed concern about the impact of the political situation on her children’s future. Living next to an illegal Israeli settlement, the family faces regular harassment and constraints in their daily lives. For Palestinians, Mohammed’s story is typical. Yet, families like the Zalloum’s are determined to provide the best possible future for their children.