In the Shati refugee camp in Gaza, Raneem Abu Al-Eish, 30, cares for her two sisters, Aseel and Afaf, who face serious challenges due to celiac disease and intellectual disabilities. The three women share a cramped tent with their elderly parents and another sister and her husband. Life in this overcrowded camp is tough, with the heat of the day and the cold of night making their living conditions harsh.
Raneem’s sisters struggle to communicate and often feel overwhelmed by the noise around them. Aseel has difficulty coping with loud sounds and sudden changes, which can lead to distress. Afaf deals with involuntary movements and impulsive behaviors, making her vulnerable to bullying from other children. Raneem describes the pain of watching her sisters be mocked, saying that people often don’t understand their conditions.
The family lost their home in Jabalia camp eight months ago when it was destroyed during the ongoing conflict. Since then, they have moved from one temporary shelter to another, including a United Nations school, before settling in their current tent. Privacy is hard to come by, and even basic needs like bathroom visits become humiliating experiences.
Six months ago, their situation worsened dramatically when Raneem’s brother Mohammad was taken by Israeli forces during a hospital raid. He was the main support for the family, helping them manage medical needs and navigate aid services. Without him, Raneem feels alone in caring for her sisters and parents, especially as they face food shortages and limited medical care.
The ongoing conflict in Gaza has led to severe shortages of gluten-free food, which is critical for Aseel and Afaf. In a region where wheat flour is the primary food source, finding safe options for them is nearly impossible. Aid deliveries have been limited, and what little food reaches the camp is often too expensive.
Raneem recalls how, before the war, her sisters received regular medical care and support. Now, their needs are largely unmet, and they face increased marginalization. A report from 2025 indicated that a significant portion of Gaza’s displaced population has disabilities. Many struggle to access basic facilities in makeshift shelters, which lack essential features like ramps and adapted bathrooms.
Despite Raneem’s efforts to seek understanding from their neighbors, stigma remains a constant challenge. She wishes for empathy and support, not just for her sisters, but for all vulnerable people affected by the conflict. As they continue to face displacement and hardship, Raneem emphasizes that her sisters are not just victims of war; they are individuals deserving of dignity and care.