Kettering for Gaza

For years I had been watching these massacres unfold on the TV in Palestine , I felt even after contributing to charities frustrated not being able to go out my self and physically help. About a week and a half to two weeks prior to the convoy I received a text message stating that George was going to lead a convoy to Gaza . I felt myself that it was the exact humanitarian opportunity I was looking for and with the support of my family, the decision was easy to make. After weighing out the risks that may have been involved, and the hard work and effort it was going to need, I decided to proceed with the decisions to join the convoy.

            I have a couple of businesses, one of which is buying and selling medical equipment of which Sunni is a partner. Together, we felt that we could positively contribute towards the humanitarian aid that was being taken to Gaza . So, within the space of two weeks we raised finances from local communities, purchased a vehicle for the convoy and gathered specialised medical equipment.

            On the 14 th of February we had mixed feelings before departing. We both felt sadness about leaving our families for such a long period of time but on the other hand, we were excited at the prospect of being a part of this historic convoy that would be known throughout many different countries. What kept us strong was our faith and knowing that our families were safe and secure at home, so surely us going to help people who were suffering and not in such secure homes would put our minds at rest. The journey itself at times was challenging and demanding but also exciting and by pushing ourselves to certain limits we both found things out about ourselves that we did not know before this journey. We met some amazing, memorable people on this convoy, and the support that was received from the general public in all our visited countries brought us to tears several times.

            Going into Gaza was a special feeling and the reception we received on our arrival was breathtaking, nothing we were expecting. The hospitality of people was tremendous, they gave us privileges that they themselves would struggle to have, being able to do this and have such love towards us, must have been a struggle being in their situation. Leaving was an emotional experience, as we wished our stay could have been prolonged, it was also sad leaving knowing that all the aid we had left, could be completely destroyed with no notice by the Israeli terrorists, making all our efforts less meaningful but not lost. However, we had prepared ourselves for that, and no matter what we will continue to support Palestine until it is free, hence we are looking forward to the next convoy. On our return home, we were overjoyed to be reunited with our families.

Bish, Kettering