I was born and raised in Aleppo, Syria, a city that once thrived with culture and history. Aleppo, recognized as one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, was often referred to as the “jewel of Syria.” Its vibrant downtown was a UNESCO World Heritage Site, filled with life before the upheaval of the revolution in 2011.
Raised by a single mother who balanced her demanding career as an anesthesiologist across multiple hospitals, I enjoyed a childhood that was both joyful and safe. I fondly remember the public park just a five-minute stroll from our home, where my mother would take my brother and me to play. One of my favorite pastimes was gathering white jasmines to craft flower crowns, all while basking in the warmth of the sun and listening to the soothing sounds of the water fountain. Those moments epitomized a carefree childhood.
My upbringing was enriched by stories from my grandparents. My grandmother, a refugee from Lebanon, shared tales of the wars that shaped her life, while my grandfather fled from Turkey. In those narratives, Syria emerged as a sanctuary—a place where people sought refuge and safety. My childhood was imbued with the belief that my country was safe and welcoming, a haven for many.
The Reality for Children Today
Today, children residing in Aleppo experience a starkly different reality, confined to just 20% of the city I once knew. They are unaware of the Aleppo that flourished around the ancient citadel, a place where I spent countless hours with my grandmother, who introduced me to the history of our rich culture. Now, 80% of Aleppo lies in ruins, and these children learn about their city through faded photographs or the fragmented stories of their family members. While I grew up in a vibrant city, these children only know a landscape marred by destruction.
The Burden of Adulthood on Young Shoulders
While working with an organization dedicated to supporting displaced families, I witnessed the heartbreaking reality of those who fled their homes under dire circumstances. Many escape with nothing but the clothes they wear, desperately needing basic necessities—shelter, food, water—and access to hygiene. Schooling has become a distant memory for many children, who now find themselves thrust into adult roles, working to support their families in ways that no child should ever have to.
I met children who had been playing outside when a bomb fell, awakening in a hospital, unsure of their parents’ fate. Imagine the terror of going from enjoying a game to facing the harsh realities of the street. Instead of playing, these children are now burdened with the responsibility of survival, seeking food and shelter, and navigating dangers that threaten their safety and well-being.
Reclaiming Childhood
In my early interactions with the children at various care centers, it often felt like I was speaking with adults trapped in young bodies. My colleagues and I worked diligently to help them shed the weight of their circumstances and reconnect with their childhood. We emphasized the importance of education, play, and friendship, reminding them that their primary focus should be on enjoying their youth and nurturing their potential.
While addressing their immediate needs—food, shelter, and medical care—is crucial, we cannot overlook the psychological scars these children carry. Trauma from losing loved ones or witnessing horrific events is not something they can navigate alone. With the help of expert trauma counselors at dedicated child-friendly spaces, they begin to rediscover the joys of childhood through play and social interaction. When children feel safe and have their basic needs met, they can start to heal and reclaim their childhood.
Help us bring hope to the children of Syria. Consider sponsoring a child today to make a difference in their lives. For more insights into family-building options, you can visit this excellent resource on pregnancy and home insemination, which offers valuable information on various methods.
In summary, the plight of Syrian children today is a heartbreaking contrast to the memories of a once-vibrant Aleppo. Through compassion and support, we can help these children reclaim their lost childhood and restore their hope for a brighter future.