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

Walking Into Danger
© HI
Explosive weapons

Walking Into Danger

Roger Eid, head of Humanity & Inclusion's clearance team in Iraq says that local people have become used to explosive remnants and can sometimes put themselves in danger. To clear the land is the only solution.

Landmine everywhere: A stop on the road can be deadly
© Noor Bimbashi / HI
Explosive weapons Rehabilitation

Landmine everywhere: A stop on the road can be deadly

Salah Al Din was injured by a landmine in 2024. This father of 5 struggles to recover. He is supported by Humanity & Inclusion.

DRC: Joyce and Jessy, twin sisters, are learning to talk, laugh and play
© N. Lagrisi Lusilawo / HI
Health Rehabilitation

DRC: Joyce and Jessy, twin sisters, are learning to talk, laugh and play

Joyce and Jessy both have cerebral palsy. Thanks to the care provided by Humanity & Inclusion, they are making great progress towards greater independence.

FOLLOW US