Shamm Qudeih, 2, sits on her bed at the Santobono Pausilipon Children’s Hospital in Naples, southern Italy, Tuesday, Sept. 2, 2025, where she is being treated after being evacuated from Gaza. Associated Press
Little Shamm Qudeih’s story is one of survival and hope. The two-year-old girl, once frail and starving in Gaza, is now slowly regaining strength at an Italian hospital. Her recovery offers a glimpse of light amid the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
From Gaza’s Hunger Crisis to Italy’s Care
Just weeks ago, Shamm was clinging to life in a hospital in southern Gaza. She was severely malnourished, her ribs visible, her body weak. Doctors in Gaza suspected a rare genetic condition but lacked the resources to diagnose or treat her.
The blockade, imposed by Israel to pressure Hamas to release hostages, had cut off vital food and medicine supplies. Shamm’s condition worsened daily. On August 13, she was evacuated to Italy with six other children.
Now, under medical care in Naples, she is slowly regaining weight with the help of a special carbohydrate-rich porridge.
A Toddler’s Progress in Naples
At Santobono Pausilipon Children’s Hospital, pediatric genetic specialist Dr. Daniele de Brasi is leading her treatment. When she first arrived, Shamm weighed only 4 kilograms — barely half the healthy weight for her age.
Today, she weighs 5.5 kilograms. Her blonde hair is tied in a ponytail, and her eyes sparkle as she responds to her family’s calls. Doctors credit her improved health to a carefully managed diet that balances carbohydrates and nutrients.
Her rare condition, glycogen storage disease, prevents her body from absorbing carbohydrates properly. This genetic disorder contributed heavily to her malnutrition. Doctors say progress is steady but must remain cautious.
A Mother’s Struggle Through War and Hunger
Shamm’s mother, Islam, has faced immense challenges. Since the Hamas-led attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, Gaza has been under relentless bombardment. The family was displaced more than 15 times, moving from tents to temporary shelters.
Islam recalls walking long distances under the scorching sun, struggling to find food and treatment for her daughters. At times, doctors gave antibiotics instead of the specific care her child needed.
“Everything became worse with no food, no treatment, no possibilities,” she said, holding Shamm in her arms.
The United Nations recently reported that nearly 12,000 Gaza children under five suffer acute malnutrition, with over 2,500 in the most dangerous condition.
The Final Photograph in Gaza
One of the most haunting images of Shamm was taken at Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis. In the photo, her frail body showed the toll of hunger.
The picture was captured by journalist Mariam Dagga, a former schoolmate of Islam. Days later, Dagga was killed in an Israeli strike that claimed 22 lives, including four other journalists.
“She was always with me, checking on us,” Islam remembered. “She even stayed until the last step to say goodbye before our evacuation.”
Ongoing Treatment and Future Hopes
Shamm is among 181 Palestinian children receiving medical care in Italy. About one-third arrived after Israel’s intensified blockade earlier this year.
At present, Shamm is fed through a nasal tube overnight to ensure balanced nutrition. During the day, she eats solid foods like fish, meat, and porridge. Doctors carefully monitor her calorie intake, gradually increasing it to avoid complications.
Her older sister Judi, 10, was also underweight when she arrived. She has since gained nearly 2 kilograms and is recovering well.
No Return While War Continues
For now, Islam feels a sense of relief watching both daughters improve. But returning to Gaza is out of the question.
“There is no way back as long as the war continues,” she said. “There are no possibilities for my daughters there.”
Shamm’s recovery may be slow, but it represents resilience. Her journey from starvation in Gaza to medical care in Italy is a symbol of hope against all odds.
