Child from Gaza comes to St. Louis for medical treatment

ST. LOUIS - Missouri welcomed a brave world traveler mid-January. Seven-year-old Tala arrived in St. Louis Sunday afternoon, entering a new chapter of her and her family's lives, and will soon begin treatment at Shriners Children’s Hospital.

Tala was born in Gaza with congenital deformities in her arms and legs, leading to severe challenges both physically and mentally.

Her journey to St. Louis was made possible by HEAL Palestine, a nonprofit focused on providing care to children in Gaza both on the ground overseas and here in the United States.

"The whole family's emotional needs will be met not just by the host family, which is very loving, but by the community, who has so much love,” Linda Badran, HEAL Palestine, said. “Like we have an outpouring of love for Gaza and we just want to express it somewhere, right? It's just been so much pain and suffering.”

The national organization only gave their St. Louis professionals four days’ notice ahead of Tala’s arrival, but the team was ready. Tala was welcomed with open arms from professionals, volunteers, and supporters eager to help her receive treatment that could improve her mobility, independence, and overall quality of life.

Talking about Tala’s family, Linda opened up: “Their strength and resilience and their love for life are just so beautiful to be around and it's definitely added to our lives.”

This is not the first time HEAL Palestine has brought hope to the region. The organization recently supported another child after the 13-year-old lost his leg in a bombing. For more information and to donate, visit HEALPalestine.org.