Sussex-based donkey charity saves lives in Gaza

As war rages, one Sussex charity is working to protect the donkeys who help save lives

Safe Haven for Donkeys is a charity based in Haywards Heath dedicated to healing sick and injured donkeys across Israel, the Palestinian Territories, Egypt, and Gaza.

Their mobile team in Gaza, led by Dr Saif, have told us here at Title Sussex of the incredible work they do, and how a donkey named Fatima managed to save the lives of Alaa and her newborn baby. It has more than a touch of a Christmas tale about it…

How donkeys can save lives

As war rages over Israel, the Palestinian Territories, and Gaza, fuel has become scarce, and many vehicles have been destroyed by bombs and missiles. But Palestinian people still need transport to get out of dangerous areas and into safety.

This is where a donkey’s work begins.

Donkeys are able to transport people out of dangerous areas, and deliver supplies to those who need them most. Their services are indispensable, especially for those who are sick, injured or elderly, who may not be able to walk long distances on their own.

The vital work of Safe Haven for Donkeys

These donkeys are working hard to save lives and protect the futures of Palestinian people. They have become a symbol of hope amongst the raging horrors of war.

“With her quiet strength, the donkey had done more than carry a mother to safety – it had become a symbol of resilience, hope and the unbreakable spirit of those who live through the darkest of times. The donkey had not only carried Alaa but had also carried the hopes of a community yearning for better days!” – Dr Saif

But of course, as with the terrible conditions people are enduring, the donkeys too suffer from malnourishment, dehydration, sickness and dreadful wounds. The people of Palestine barely have the resources to care for themselves, let alone these donkeys, making it hard for the donkeys to keep working to save lives.

Safe Haven for Donkeys have dedicated themselves to the healthcare and treatment of these incredible equines, so that they may continue their invaluable work. Their mobile teams treat the donkeys through sickness and injury, from harness wounds to bomb injuries, even offering treats where possible to keep the donkeys as healthy and happy as possible in these dark times.

Alaa’s story

One such story of how donkeys have helped save lives in Gaza is the incredible tale of how Fatima the donkey brought Alaa to safety as she went into labour, told to us by Dr Saif, leader of the mobile team in Gaza.

As the sun set, a nine-month-pregnant Alaa felt her contractions kick in to the sounds of war and devastation. She was alone at home, surrounded by danger on all sides, and fearful for the life of her baby. Her husband, while out caring for his ill elderly father at hospital, called Dr Saif’s brother Mohammed for help.

Mohammed arrived with a donkey named Fatima, who had recently been treated by Safe Haven for Donkeys. With the destruction of war all around, only a donkey could access Alaa’s home, and carry her safely to the hospital.

With her heart pounding and hands tightly gripping Fatima, Alaa was led by Mohammed through rubble and shrapnel. They travelled past buildings entirely levelled by warfare, as the sounds of shelling increased. But through it all, Mohammed was determined to reach Nasar Hospital where Alaa may give birth in safety.

“A collapsed wall blocked their path, but Mohammed manoeuvred around it surprisingly deftly. Alaa felt a wave of gratitude wash over her. “You’re going to make it, despite the roads being hard to go through, Mohammed,” she whispered. Mohammed replied, “We must do it to save you and your baby, Alaa”.”

And in the end, they managed to reach Nasar Hospital, with Alaa giving birth only an hour later to her beautiful baby, Nur. Mohammed and Fatima then took Alaa and her newborn baby back home to reunite with her family. The family were thrilled to see Alaa and beyond grateful for Mohammed and Fatima’s help during such a difficult time.

How you can help

Alaa’s story is just one of many ways donkeys have helped change the lives of people in Israel, Palestine, Egypt and, more crucially than ever, in Gaza. But as war rages on, there’s always more work to be done. There are still countless people in need of help from these donkeys, and from us.

“There’s certainly very good improvement to the majority of cases we’ve treated. It’s important to mention that we have done all this even though we don’t have enough equipment and medicine.” – Dr Saif

Access to supplies in Gaza is limited – accessing medication alone can require walking up to 20 kilometres. But there are plenty of ways we can help support Safe Haven for Donkeys’ lifechanging work.

To donate directly to helping a donkey, click here. You can also visit their website for more information on their work, as well as other ways to get involved.