Meet Alya Shabaanovich Gali, a renowned doctor in war-torn Ukraine with a constant line of patients. But to his family in besieged Gaza, he is Alaa Shabaan Abu Ghali, the one who left. For 30 years, these identities rarely intersected until conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza converged in his life.
Gali left Gaza amid instability, settled in Kyiv, adopted a new name, and married a Ukrainian woman. Both conflicts have disrupted regional power balances, with relentless air raids and missile attacks taking a toll on Gali’s personal life. The recent loss of his nephew and the destruction of his workplace have left him grappling with darkness and grief.
Despite the chaos, Gali remains committed to his work and family, finding solace in helping patients and receiving sporadic updates from loved ones in Gaza. His story encapsulates the harsh realities of war and the resilience required to endure such immense suffering, both personally and professionally.
Through his story, we glimpse the endurance of the human spirit amidst unimaginable tragedy, where love for family and dedication to healing transcend the horrors of war.