Life after amputation: Gaza women find recovery through football

In central Gaza, a group of young Palestinian women with artificial limbs are playing football on one of the few pitches to survive the conflict. These athletes have experienced life-altering injuries from bombing or required amputation following severe wounds. The Palestine Association Women's Amputee Football Team has emerged as a critical support structure, helping members navigate both the physical and psychological dimensions of recovery.

According to the World Health Organization and Palestinian health authorities, more than 5,000 individuals in Gaza have undergone limb amputations since the conflict began in October 2023, representing one of the highest amputation rates documented in modern history. The team currently comprises 11 players, nine of whom have lower-limb amputations and two with upper-limb amputations who serve as goalkeepers.

Farah Abu Qinas, 23 years old, exemplifies the team's impact. Following a bombing near her grandmother's home in June 2024, she sustained severe injuries to both legs, ultimately requiring amputation of her left leg. The initial recovery period proved isolating, with even basic daily activities becoming challenging. Her trajectory shifted when she encountered Fouad Abu Ghalyon, president of the Palestine Amputee Football Association, during a physical therapy session. An invitation to training sessions followed, and with encouragement from teammates who shared similar experiences, Farah gradually regained confidence and mobility. She now plays alongside teammates Rozan Khaira and Aisha al-Abadla, each navigating their own path toward physical and emotional recovery through sport.