Displacement and Injury
Fourteen-year-old Muhammad Abu Aida and his mother, Muna, had sought refuge at a UN school in Nuseirat refugee camp after being displaced from their home in Gaza.
On 16 July 2024, the school was hit by an Israeli airstrike, killing 23 people and injuring over 70. Muhammad survived, but shrapnel injuries led to the amputation of his right hand.
Music as Therapy
His psychological support team introduced him to music therapy during his recovery sessions. It was during these sessions that he met Sama Najm, a 16-year-old violinist and student at the Edward Said National Conservatory of Music.
Sama, who is also displaced, volunteers to help younger children process trauma through music. She noticed Muhammad’s interest in the violin and encouraged him to try playing.
Using a cloth to tie the bow to his arm, Muhammad held the violin with his remaining hand and began learning.
Finding Purpose After Loss
Muhammad shared that playing music helps him momentarily escape the ongoing violence. “I want to live fully,” he said.
“I want to achieve my dreams with every ounce of my being.”
He hopes to receive a prosthetic hand to improve his playing. “It will not only restore my ability to play but also let me express emotions through music in ways I haven’t yet explored.”
His mother, Muna, said the injury left him withdrawn and unwilling to return to school. But discovering a passion for the violin has reignited his confidence.
“His love for music has changed him,” she said. “It’s the first time in a long while I’ve seen him focused on something with hope.”
Music Amid Destruction
Even as the school where they shelter remains partially destroyed, music has become a symbol of resilience.
Their informal sessions now bring comfort to others in the camp, offering a rare sense of normalcy amid the ongoing conflict.
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