Portland Nurse Stranded in Gaza Urges Help for Medical Team Replacement
ICARO Media Group
In a distressing situation, Monica Johnson, a dedicated nurse hailing from Portland, finds herself trapped in Gaza along with 19 other American medical workers. The group is facing difficulties due to the closure of the Rafah border crossing into Egypt by Israel, leaving them uncertain about their return to the United States. Johnson, a wound and care nurse, spoke to ABC News about the challenges they are currently facing.
Having arrived in Gaza approximately two weeks ago, Johnson was scheduled to depart on Monday. However, with their freedom of movement restricted, the medical team is now unsure of how they will manage to leave. "I have definitely just decided to settle in and be present," Johnson expressed, explaining her outlook in the challenging situation. Despite the uncertainty, she remains optimistic and faith-filled, hoping that they will be able to return home safely.
Adding to their predicament, the medical team's supplies have been depleted, and they are running out of bottled water. While Israel has stated that accredited aid workers can enter or leave Gaza, Johnson and her colleagues have raised concerns over the lack of a guarantee for safe passage. The situation has become a cause for worry as no clear solution has been presented to ensure their safe return.
However, Johnson explains that her priority lies not just in her team's departure but also in ensuring that another medical team will take their place to continue providing essential care. The need for consistent medical attention in Gaza remains critical, and Johnson hopes that immediate measures will be taken to send another team to replace them.
As the situation continues to unfold, aid agencies and international organizations are being urged to collaborate and facilitate the safe return of the American medical workers, while also ensuring that the people of Gaza receive continued medical support. Johnson's plight serves as a reminder of the extraordinary dedication exhibited by healthcare workers who put themselves at risk to provide essential assistance, even in the face of unpredictable circumstances.
Efforts are now underway to secure the safe departure of Monica Johnson and her colleagues from Gaza and ensure that another medical team is promptly dispatched for the ongoing care of the people in need.