Locations
The story of Rajwan Shawana: a journey of hope
February 19, 2025
In the city of Sulaymaniyah, nestled in the embrace of Iraq’s northeast mountains, the birth of Rajwan Shawana brought both joy and unanticipated challenges to his family. At just nine months old, Rajwan’s fight for survival began as his parents noticed something amiss with his growth. After medical consultations, they were confronted with the alarming reality: a congenital heart defect was preventing his heart from pumping oxygen efficiently, making urgent surgery a matter of life or death.
The Way to Baghdad
With unwavering determination, Rajwan's parents embarked on a grueling journey to Ibn Al-Bitar Center for cardiac surgery in Baghdad. Despite the emotional and physical toll, their hope remained steadfast. At the center, medical evaluations confirmed the need for advanced cardiac surgery. The case was then promptly referred to Fallujah Hospital, which had recently undergone a remarkable transformation, equipped with all new medical facilities under the UNDP, generously funded by the German government.
The Way to Fallujah: A Community of Compassion
Upon arriving in Fallujah, the family was greeted with an outpouring of kindness from the city’s residents. Rajwan’s father, moved by their hospitality, remarked:
"The people of Fallujah welcomed us like their own family. Their warmth gave us strength during a difficult time."
In a twist of fate, Rajwan’s father reunited with an old friend, Saif Hikmat, a man who had once sought refuge in Sulaymaniyah during the ISIS conflict. Saif’s gratitude for the past became a beacon of support for the family.
"In Sulaymaniyah, your people were our family when we had nowhere to go. Now, it’s my turn to stand by you," Saif said.
A Lifesaving Surgery
At Fallujah Hospital, Dr. Mohammed Hamdi led a team of specialists equipped with state-of-the-art cardiac technology. Speaking about Rajwan’s case, Dr. Hamdi shared:
"Every child deserves a fighting chance, and we are here to make that possible."
The hospital’s recent upgrades—courtesy of international support—had turned it into a center of excellence. In the past year alone, the facility had conducted over 15 pediatric open-heart surgeries and 225 monthly catheterization procedures, serving patients from across Iraq.
Recovery and Renewal
Ten days post-surgery, Rajwan’s health began to stabilize. Dr. Hamdi expressed optimism about his future, stating:
"This is a new beginning for Rajwan and his family. With proper care, he has a great chance at a normal life."
For his parents, the successful surgery marked the end of a harrowing chapter and the start of a hopeful journey toward a brighter tomorrow.
A Symbol of Hope
Rajwan’s story transcends his personal struggles. It is a testament to the resilience of communities, the power of international cooperation, and the life-changing impact of medical innovation. His recovery not only brings hope to his family but also highlights the profound role of humanitarian efforts like the United Nations Stabilization Program and the generosity of the German government.
When Rajwan returns to Sulaymaniyah, his journey will echo as a tale of triumph over adversity—a story of how compassion, determination, and unity can light the way, even in the darkest of times.
