Goto main content

Qusay, 14: “I don't have to depend on anyone”

Emergency Explosive weapons Rehabilitation
Jordan Syria

Eloquent, determined and mature beyond his 14 years, Qusay is coping with losing both his legs in an air strike in Syria. His progress is an inspiration to everyone he meets.

Qusay standing tall on his new prosthetic legs, Jordan

© Benoit Almeras/Handicap International

Say HI to an extraordinary child. Say hello to Qusay.

Eloquent, determined and mature beyond his 14 years, Qusay is coping with losing both his legs in an air strike in Syria.

“I was sitting outside my home when it happened,” explains Qusay. “The air raid started and it all happened so fast I didn’t have time to realise what was going on. I don’t remember everything clearly. When I came round, I was lying on the floor, two people spotted me, ran over and took me straight to hospital.”

Qusay’s injuries were so serious he had to be transferred to another hospital in northern Jordan, where he was operated on six times and was bedridden for six weeks.

According to Handicap International physiotherapist Salam, a lot has changed since she started doing sessions with Qusay last year, and Qusay confirms it: “I can go to the market again, wash myself, and cope alone. I don’t have to depend on anyone,” he smiles.

“I’ve gone from four legs to two,” he adds, looking at his crutches propped in a corner of the room. “It’s very difficult to learn to walk after a double amputation,” adds Salam.

Help a young amputee like Qusay. Please donate today

Date published: 08/06/16

COUNTRIES

Where we work

Read more

“At the heart of the bombings, but we keep acting”
© HI
Emergency Explosive weapons Rehabilitation

“At the heart of the bombings, but we keep acting”

Nahed Al-Khlouf leads Humanity & Inclusion's teams in Lebanon. She is coordinating our emergency response, particularly for people with disabilities, pregnant women, and elderly people displaced by the bombings.

Earthquake in Myanmar: More than 55,000 people assisted by HI after the disaster
© HI
Emergency Rehabilitation

Earthquake in Myanmar: More than 55,000 people assisted by HI after the disaster

One year after the earthquake that struck Myanmar in March 2025, the situation remains fragile: Humanity & Inclusion has provided support to tens of thousands of people in the regions hardest hit by the disaster.

Myanmar:One year after the earthquake,Paing Thu Zaw becomes more independent thanks to HI
© HI
Emergency Rehabilitation

Myanmar:One year after the earthquake,Paing Thu Zaw becomes more independent thanks to HI

A year ago, a powerful earthquake struck the city of Mandalay, turning Paing Thu Zaw and his family life upside down. Thanks to HI’s support, they are gradually regaining hope and independence.

FOLLOW US