Doha: Together with International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, Qatar Red Crescent (QRC) is celebrating today World Humanitarian Day under the theme ‘Inspiring the World’s Humanity’.
The day recognises those who face danger and adversity to help others and coincides with the anniversary of the 2003 bombing of the UN headquarters in Baghdad. It also honours those who have died during humanitarian service and those who continue to bring assistance and relief to millions. It seeks to draw attention to humanitarian needs worldwide and the importance of international cooperation in meeting these needs.
QRC also commemorates its volunteers, including cardiac surgeon Dr Saleh Al Hassan, 35, a QRC doctor killed while performing his humanitarian duty in Tabka Hospital, Syria.
He left Tel Abyad Hospital and joined Tabka Hospital as a volunteer to support colleagues. He treated many injuries and saved many lives and died on August 23 while defending his humanitarian cause and dedicated time and effort to setting an example of sacrifice. A cofounder and later manager of QRC hospital in Tel Abyad, he encouraged doctors, nurses and technicians to work hard and reminded them that patients are their people and that serving them is a religious and ethical duty.
He was a role model of commitment and hard work for all doctors. When things went fierce, he and his team would stay at the hospital, working day and night until the end of clashes.
Another QRC martyred volunteer was Dr Layth Abu Al Walid, 23, who played a significant role in the polio vaccination campaign. On his last day, he went home to spend time with his family. Then, he decided to go back again to his medical unit, where crossfire erupted and he was shot dead.
The Peninsula
