Libya: Ten years rebuilding lives, one step at a time

People with physical disabilities face a wide range of challenges, including mental health issues.

“After eight years, I got used to the prosthetic limb. At least I can stand up, do what I need and walk around easily, even psychologically, there is mental peace,” recalled Emhemmed, whose right leg was amputated after he was shot while trying to raise a white flag during violent clashes.

One way to address these challenges is to support people understand their situation, which means helping them grasp exactly how their lives may change as a result of their injury.

“I started dressing well once again. [Before having a prosthetic leg fitted] I couldn't wear sneakers, I had to tailor all my trousers to be cropped on one leg,” remembers Salah, a patient at the Janzour Rehabilitation Centre in northwestern Libya. 

“It's unbelievable. At home I have a young daughter who wished that I could pick her up and hold her while standing. As soon as she saw me bending down when I got my prosthetic leg, I held her and picked her up,” said Salah.