Father refused entry at checkpoint with 8 year old son

Eight-year old Anas lives with his family in the village of Qasra, near Nablus in the North of the West Bank.

Sadly, he suffers from squint and often found his daily school work very demanding. Anas has already undergone surgery for his condition on two separate occasions and in early October was due to receive further surgery, at our main Hospital in Jerusalem.

On the day prior to his appointment, in the early hours of the morning, Anas set off with his father from their home. Despite Nablus being situated just 40 miles from Jerusalem, the many road barriers and checkpoints along the way led them to anticipate a journey of about three hours. What they could not have expected, however, were the events that would take place at the main checkpoint into Jerusalem.

Astonishingly, Ana’s father was denied access into Jerusalem and prevented from following his son through the entry barriers. Despite his desperate pleas, and the young age and eye condition of Anas, the father could not persuade the Security Forces to allow him through the border. Distraught and helpless, he telephoned staff at St John for help.

A hospital driver and nurse were quickly dispatched to the checkpoint, where they found and picked up a frightened but very brave eight-year old. Anas arrived at the Hospital with his bottom lip quivering, already longing for his parents. St John staff welcomed the boy into his new temporary family and showered him with small gifts and lots of love and attention. Quickly, the young guest was made to feel as safe and secure.

Early the next morning doctors successfully operated on Anas, allowing him to be reunited with his family. Talking about the traumatic experience afterwards, Anas said, "I will never ever ever forget this. I feel like I have been looked after at home by my family".

Ana's story like so many we encounter every day demonstrates the unquestionable commitment and dedication of our staff to reach the unreachable. Another reminder of why we are there.