As a student at Bethlehem University, life is more than just attending lectures and going to the library. It's a daily story of struggle intertwined with hope and ambition. My name is Lujain Al-Afandi, a student in the Faculty of Nursing and Health Sciences, majoring in Physiotherapy for my bachelor’s degree. I live with my family of seven, and the stories we share reflect challenges and hardships but also embody resilience and unwavering determination.

My mother, the cornerstone of our household, works as a midwife and is the beating heart of our family. Her monthly salary of 2,000 NIS barely covers our basic needs, yet she tirelessly strives to provide us with a dignified life. My father, who once supported us financially, suffered an injury to his abdomen during the Intifada, leaving him unable to work. His injury is more than a physical wound; it has deeply impacted our family emotionally and economically.

We live in a small house, and our daily life is filled with challenges. My mother works long hours to meet our essential needs. Despite her efforts, she cannot cover the university tuition for both me and my sister, who is studying midwifery at the same university. Between tuition fees, personal expenses, and daily transportation, we constantly face financial difficulties.

Donor contributions serve as an unexpected source of hope. Through the financial support I receive, I can continue my education at Bethlehem University—an achievement that would be impossible without such assistance. These contributions are not just monetary; they represent a lifeline of hope, preventing despair from overshadowing my journey.

Pursuing my degree in physiotherapy is not just a personal dream but a beacon of hope for my entire family. I am deeply aware that once I graduate and begin working, I will be able to help my mother shoulder life’s burdens and provide financial support for my family, especially for my father, who continues to struggle with the consequences of his injury.

Today, my presence at the university and my determination to achieve my goals are direct results of the contributions made by donors who see potential in my story and believe it is worth supporting.

These contributions not only open the doors of the university for me but also give me a sense of care and belief in my future. This feeling of support adds an extra layer of motivation to succeed—not only for myself but for my family and everyone who believes in my ability to achieve success.

University life, for me, is not just about academics; it is a journey to balance ambition with reality—a balance between excelling academically and contributing to my family’s financial needs. Thanks to donor support, I will be able to overcome many of the challenges I would otherwise face alone.

In conclusion, I want to emphasize that every bit of help extended to me will not just be financial support; it will be a bridge connecting me to my dreams and future. I am deeply grateful to everyone who contributes to supporting my education. I promise to one day pay it forward, whether to my family or my community.

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Lujain Nader Ezzat Al-Afandi | Bethlehem, Palestine

Major: Physiotherapy