In the peaceful yet sombre confines of his home in Lahj, Yemen, 25-year-old Khaldoon reflects on his crutches — an ever-present reminder of a life transformed by tragedy. In a country where ongoing conflicts have weakened health services and 80% of the population lives below the poverty line, his story echoes the many catastrophes, from wars to individual tragedies, that shape lives across Yemen.
His life took a heartbreaking turn the day he was involved in a terrible motorcycle accident. The collision was severe enough to require an amputation—a devastating blow, not only because he and his bike were the main providers for his family, but also because the lack of healthcare facilities made his recovery even more uncertain and expensive. Doctors initially aimed to save as much as possible of Khaldoon's leg, but surgical complications led to a below knee amputation. He spent nearly a month at the German Hospital in Yemen, coming to terms with the harsh reality of living with a disability.
Khaldoon’s healing journey—both physically and emotionally—began in earnest when he came into contact with Handicap International – Humanity and Inclusion (HI) Yemen, and NGO funded with European Union Humanitarian Aid.
The organisation supports the hospital where Khaldoon received physical and psychological services, including mobility aids such as crutches. He was then referred to the prosthetics and physical therapy centre in Aden to finish his treatment.
‘I didn’t just get physical help; I found encouragement and hope there,’ Khaldoon says.
Psychological support and rehabilitation therapy became pillars in his recovery, helping him find the strength to move forward. The HI staff worked closely with him, guiding him through exercises that gradually rebuilt his confidence and physical abilities.
A significant milestone in Khaldoon’s recovery came when he was fitted with a prosthetic limb. ‘When I first used the prosthesis, it felt like I had regained something I had lost,’ he says. ‘I could walk again. I could move more freely, go outside and live my life again.’ Compared to the limitations of crutches, the prosthetic limb restored his independence, improved his mobility, and gave him the freedom to use his hands — a tangible step forward in his recovery.
Once he adapted to his prosthetic limb, Khaldoon made the courageous decision to return to the job he loved — riding a motorcycle. In doing so, he is slowly reclaiming his sense of identity.
‘Going back to work helped me regain my independence and support my family,’ he says with pride.
Samah is a dedicated health professional who supervises HI’s activities at the centre. She explains that the European Union’s support extends to the prosthetic centre in Aden, where it funds various therapy services delivered for free by HI.
‘We provide essential materials such as prosthetic and orthotic components as well as wheelchairs and crutches,’ she says. ‘But just as vital is the psychological support we offer. It’s a lifeline for those learning to live with limb loss.’ The centre’s comprehensive care model ensures that patients recover physically and are empowered to regain their dignity and independence.
Despite the setbacks, Khaldoon achieved a personal breakthrough that many thought unlikely after his accident: ‘I got married,’ he beams. ‘That proves love, and support can flourish even in the face of adversity.’ Prior to the accident, Khaldoon had been working hard, saving money and making plans for his future. Although his path changed, his determination never wavered.
‘I am deeply grateful to HI’s staff for their continued support during one of the most challenging times of my life,’ he says earnestly. They not only helped him to walk again but also gave him the strength to dream again.
The prosthetic centre in Aden, where Khaldoon received treatment, continues to support people with similar needs. As part of the European Union’s health strategy in Yemen, it aims to strengthen the country’s impaired health system and alleviate the widespread suffering caused by a decade of conflict, the persistent threat of landmines, and accidents catastrophes
Between July 2023 and January 2025, its partner HI provided comprehensive assistance to 11,000 women and men across the country, including persons with disabilities, injuries, and caregivers. This support included full physical and functional rehabilitation services such as physiotherapy, psychosocial support, and prosthetic and orthotic devices, among other vital interventions.
In 2025, the EU allocated €80 million in humanitarian aid to address urgent crises in Yemen. While the overall needs remain immense, for Khaldoon and many others, this clinic represents more than just assistance—it stands as a powerful symbol of resilience, hope, and the enduring strength of the humanitarian spirit.
