In the rugged terrains of Hajjah Governorate, Yemen, where the echoes of conflict reverberate across its valleys and abandoned houses, a tale of courage and resilience unfolds. This is the story of Amer*, an 11-year-old boy with a mobility impairment, whose spirit remains unbroken despite the adversities he faces.

Amer* is one among the estimated 2.6 million children in Yemen living with a disability. His life took a drastic turn when he suffered a stroke following a bout of hemolytic anemia. Once an active child, full of life and dreams, Amer* now navigates a world that is far more challenging. Yet, his spirit remains unbroken, his dreams undimmed, and his father, Hassan*, stands as his rock, his unwavering pillar of support.

Hassan*, Amer's* father, is the backbone of his family, supporting them on a meager salary of 25,000 Y.R. ($44 USD) a month. "I have eight kids, seven boys, and a girl. I'm head of the family," Hassan* shares, his words echoing the harsh reality of their life, "It’s only because of my low income that [Amer's*] condition isn’t improving."

Amer* was a passionate learner, his love for school was evident in his daily enthusiasm. "He used to go to school every day," Hassan* recalls, his eyes reflecting the fond memories of his son's past. "Before falling ill, he used to go to school and get back home to play football with other kids outside. Now, he only plays with his siblings inside the house. The illness took a toll on him mentally."

Amer's* illness cast a long shadow over his psychological and emotional health. His days of school and play were replaced by countless hospital visits and never ending medical treatments. "What can I say? There’s nothing that I can do for him! All that I could do for him is to support him emotionally," Hassan* admits, the sorrow palpable in his words.

In this landscape of struggle, a glimpse of hope emerged for Amer* and his family. Save the Children, in partnership with the European Union, stepped in to provide much-needed support. Amer* received a wheelchair, psychosocial support sessions, an entertainment kit, and a school bag. The family also received cash assistance to help with Amer's* medical treatments.

"[The wheelchair] made him very happy," Hassan* shares, a rare smile lighting up his face. "If the road was paved, he would be able to go to school."

The intervention from Save the Children and the European Union has been a crucial lifeline for Amer* and his family. Their support extends beyond material aid, offering emotional and psychological support in their time of need. However, Amer's* story is unfortunately not unique. Millions of children in Yemen are still facing immense struggles and awaiting support.

While Save the Children and the European Union are doing their utmost to reach every last one of them, the need is vast and more funds and support are urgently needed. The hope is that every child will receive the necessary aid to navigate their challenges and build a better future.

"My only wish is for my son to be cured and regain his former self," Hassan* says, his eyes filled with a father's unwavering hope. "Wellness is all I want. I don’t want anything, just wellness."

Amer's* story is a poignant reminder of the immense challenges children and their families face in Yemen, particularly those with disabilities. Yet, it also serves as a testament to the inspiring resilience and bravery of the Yemeni people, their unwavering spirit in the face of adversity.

The support from Save the Children and the European Union is not just essential, it is transformative. It provides hope where there is despair, support where there is struggle, and dreams where there is hardship. It is a testament to the power of human connection, the strength of resilience, and the enduring spirit of hope.

Amer's* story is not just a story of struggle and hardship, but also a story of hope and resilience. It's a story that inspires, provokes thought, and calls for action. It's a story that needs to be heard.