“I want to return to how I used to be,” says Muath Hattab. The 21-year-old, from Tulkarem in the West Bank, dreams of returning to normal life before an accident at an Israeli factory left him paralyzed and unable to walk.
Hattab’s injuries occurred four years ago, when he suffered a strong electrical shock at the Israeli factory where he worked. General safety standards at the factory had not been met, and Hattab was electrocuted after taking hold of a power cable that had been exposed to a wet floor.
“He [Hattab] was in a coma for a month,” his mother, Um Lutfi, told Watan Al-Anbaa.
Hattab’s disability is quite severe, and he cannot stand up or walk on his own. He initially received partial treatment for his condition, but this was terminated when he was unable to afford the necessary medical costs.
“I’ve asked doctors in the West Bank, but the treatment is very expensive,” said Um Lutfi. “I am a widow, and I couldn’t pay for the treatment so it’s stopped.”
Hattab’s father died 23 years ago, leaving behind his mother and five children, and the family has since struggled financially.
Um Lutfi appealed to Palestinian Prime Minister, Mahmoud Abbas, and a number of organizations to help her son finish his treatment.
She spoke highly of her son, who had decided to start working in order to help support his family.
“I want anyone listening, ministers, politicians, the president Abu Mazen, anyone who can help me to help me,” she said.
