I’m launching this fundraiser on behalf of Mahmoud El-Haddad, a 27-year-old from Gaza who has spent his life fighting, not just to survive in war, but also in quiet, exhausting ways we don’t see.
Mahmoud was once a top student at his university, graduating with honors. He dreamed of a future full of opportunity. But life in Gaza under blockade, economic collapse, and now humanitarian catastrophe has stripped away even the basics needed for survival.
Mahmoud was recently diagnosed with a rare form of testicular cancer. He had surgery to remove the tumor, but he still urgently needs follow-up medical care to include chemotherapy, repeat imaging, and regular checkups. Unfortunately, there are no adequate medical facilities available where he lives. His only chance of survival and healing is to leave Gaza and receive treatment in Egypt, when the border crossing opens.
Despite his hardships, Mahmoud remains positive, resilient and maintains unwavering faith:
“In Gaza, we do not ask for cars, money, or land. We wish only to live in peace.” – Mahmoud El-Haddad
Mahmoud isn’t asking for luxury. He’s asking for the chance to live, to receive the medical care he urgently needs, to have food on the table, to support his family… he just wants to actually live the life he’s worked so hard for.
This is a young man who excelled in school and was gainfully employed as a teacher, sharing his bright spirit and educating others in his community. Mahmoud has faced unthinkable hardship, and despite this, he has never given up. Mahmoud deserves to live, not just survive.
Please help us raise $20,000 to cover:
Travel coordination to leave Gaza
Medical treatment & follow-ups in Egypt
Basic living costs under siege
A small margin for emergencies and fees
If the border remains closed or delayed, funds raised will be used for essential medical follow-ups and survival needs inside Gaza.
Every dollar brings Mahmoud closer to healing, hope, and dignity. Please donate and share. Let’s help Mahmoud reclaim the future he has fought for. Thank you.
My name is Libby, and I am 31F living in New York, USA. Mahmoud is the brother of my dear friend, a 16yo girl who also lives in Gaza. I message with her every single day, and I also speak with Mahmoud about his circumstances. I am able to receive funds and transfer them directly to Mahmoud; I am not receiving any portion of funds raised, all funds will benefit Mahmoud and the El-Haddad family directly. Feel free to contact me with any questions about our fundraiser.
