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Halabja Maternity Hospital: A Lifeline for Families and Children
Halabja, Iraq
In a city still bearing the scars of the 1988 chemical attack, Halabja Maternity Hospital has become a vital sanctuary for families seeking care for their children. Recent improvements have transformed the facility into a cornerstone of healthcare in the region.
Inside one of the brightly lit wards, a mother sits beside her young son, her hand gently resting on his.
“When I brought my child here, I was terrified,” she says. “But the doctors' and nurses' kindness and care eased my fears. This hospital is a blessing for families like ours.”
In the adjacent ward, another mother watches over her daughter lying quietly on a hospital bed. She recalls how difficult it was before the hospital’s renovation.
“We used to travel long distances for treatment, which was exhausting and expensive,” she explains. “Now, having a hospital like this in Halabja feels much more secure.”
Dr. Ali Hasan, a pediatrician at the hospital, highlights the importance of recent developments.
“The hospital has undergone major upgrades to meet the community's needs,” he says. “Thanks to support from partners like the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), we now have better ventilation systems, new patient rooms, and fully functional elevators. Families used to struggle with the stairs, especially parents carrying their children. Now, the elevators make it much easier for everyone.”
Infrastructure upgrades have been paired with efforts to strengthen the hospital’s medical team.
“Our team includes both men and women, and every member plays a critical role,” Dr. Hasan adds. “We’ve also been continuously training to keep up with the latest medical advancements. This ensures that we provide our patients the best possible care.”
The staff participate in regular training programs designed to enhance their medical skills, patient communication, and emergency response capabilities.
“These sessions are vital for us,” Dr. Hasan explains. “They prepare us to handle complex cases and ensure that we’re ready to meet the unique health challenges of our community.”
The long-term health effects of the 1988 chemical attack remain a pressing concern in Halabja, creating ongoing demand for specialized care.
“Many of our patients suffer from conditions related to the city’s tragic past,” Dr. Hasan says. “This hospital is not just a place for treatment, it’s a symbol of hope and resilience for Halabja’s people.”
Reflecting on her experience, the mother of the young boy emphasizes how much the hospital means to her family.
“This place has given me hope,” she says. “The doctors and nurses treat us like family, and we feel safe knowing they are here for us.”
Halabja Maternity Hospital stands as a testament to progress and resilience. With its enhanced facilities, a dedicated and well-trained medical team, and continued support, it provides a critical safety net for the city’s children and their families.
