Dr. Samer Attar risks his life to save victims in war zones

Dr. Samer Attar, a 49-year-old surgeon based in Chicago, has dedicated his life to assisting victims of war in Syria, Ukraine, and Gaza. His recent missions, including a fifth trip to Gaza, have solidified his commitment to providing urgent medical care amid ongoing conflict. During these missions, Attar worked tirelessly with the Syrian American Medical Society, taking significant personal risks as he operated in dangerous environments where medical facilities have been targeted, and many healthcare professionals have been killed. His experiences in these war zones have profoundly affected him, igniting his resolve to continue assisting those in desperate need. As a professor of surgery at Northwestern University, Dr. Attar shared his thoughts on the overwhelming suffering that he encounters. He expressed that while he cannot repair the world, he can stand next to those who suffer, sharing their grief and fear. The emotional toll of the incessant violence and despair, coupled with his determination to make a tangible difference, drives him to keep going, even when he feels helpless. He frequently reflects on the few moments of progress that keep him motivated in the face of despair. For instance, he recalls performing life-saving surgery on a 12-year-old girl during his missions, a moment that provided him with a brief respite from the anxiety that accompanies his work. Attar has been present in conflict areas where the situation is critical, noting that hospitals often come under direct attack, leading to high casualties among medical staff. His recounts of those experiences underline the dire situations faced by both medical professionals and their patients. At times, Attar describes the chaos in the hospital environment during intense fighting, reminding us of the precarious situation in which healthcare is delivered in such regions. As recent conflicts escalate in Gaza amid the Israel-Hamas war, Dr. Samer Attar continues to be a lifeline for the injured and traumatized. His return from these conflicted areas to safety allows him to seek further assistance and support for his patients. He remains an advocate for humanitarian efforts, emphasizing the necessity of compassion and understanding in times of widespread hatred and violence. His dedication shines as he balances professional duties with the emotional and psychological challenges that come from witnessing ongoing suffering across multiple nations.