In the past decade, "E.S." has endured more than most people will in a lifetime. At just 20 years old, he was diagnosed with HIV— a lifelong disease that if left untreated will be fatal. Soon after, he developed a disability that left him relying on a walker to get around and in debilitating chronic pain. Despite the limitations he faced, he excelled in his job as an online English tutor and an aspiring artist. But by 27, he lost everything — his work, his home, his beloved cats.

As a queer man in Gaza, all E.S. ever longed for was safety and acceptance. Life in a religiously conservative environment presented its own set of challenges. But when Israel launched its genocidal campaign in 2023, a normal life became impossible. A missile destroyed his family home, injuring his mother, and E.S.'s access to HIV medication was thrown into peril. The loss of his cats, displacement, hunger and constant bombardment had a severely traumatic impact on him. And although the family eventually settled in an apartment on the west side of Gaza City, everyday life for E.S. is still deeply precarious. For a sensitive soul like him, a sense of stability is vital.

This image is provided by E.S. and is meant to keep his identity protected.

Today, E.S. is in urgent need of ongoing financial support to stay healthy, secure his evacuation from Gaza to Egypt, and for his life post-evacuation. He will need everything from a new walker, to physical therapy, medication, mental health care, a laptop to work on, money for rent and groceries. The costs are as follows:

Evacuation fees and expenses: $20,000
Annual rent and utilities in Cairo: $8,000
Medication and physical therapy: $10,000
Essential living expenses (i.e., food and clothing): $6,000

This makes our total fundraising goal: $44,000. Any additional funds that are raised will be go towards supporting E.S. in resuming his work as an online tutor or continuing his college education. We would also love to establish ongoing monthly donors for this beautiful young man who deserves a life of dignity and love.

The learn more about E.S. please watch the documentary by Afeef Nessouli

A Life of Dignity For a Queer Gazan

Help a disabled and queer young man stay alive and thrive