Majdi El-Tattar, a Gaza native, is not only a survivor of a life-altering accident but also an inspiration to aspiring swimmers. At the age of nine, Majdi tragically lost his leg in an accident. Despite this setback, he has defied the odds and become a qualified swimming coach, running his own swimming school.
When parents bring their children to Majdi’s swimming classes for the first time, they are often taken aback to see him standing on two crutches. However, any doubts or concerns quickly fade away when they witness his remarkable skills in the water.
Now 42 years old, Majdi lost his right leg when he was run over by a car. Faced with limited job opportunities in the Palestinian enclave, where unemployment rates are alarmingly high, Majdi turned to swimming as both a career path and a means to overcome his disability. He dedicated himself to mastering the sport and eventually became a certified swimming coach.
“I told myself I had to turn this ordeal into a blessing. I transformed the amputation of my leg into a motivation to become an active member of society,” Majdi stated. “By developing my skills, I was able to establish my own swimming school.”
His Palestinian Swimming Academy offers classes for both young people and adults, held at a local pool in Gaza. Majdi’s determination and success serve as a source of inspiration to his students, proving that anything is possible with dedication and perseverance.
The International Committee of the Red Cross reports that Gaza, with a population of 2 million, has at least 1,600 amputees. The Assalama Charitable Society, which supports individuals with disabilities, states that 532 Gazans have lost limbs as a result of the conflict with Israel.
In a show of solidarity and support, the U.S.-based Palestine Children’s Relief Fund (PCRF) recently organized a summer camp called “Camp Ability” for 120 Gazan children with upper and lower limb amputations. The camp aims to bring these children together, showcasing their abilities and proving that they can accomplish anything.
Majdi El-Tattar’s journey is a testament to the resilience and strength of the human spirit. His story serves as a powerful reminder that physical limitations do not define a person’s potential. Through his dedication and determination, Majdi has become an inspiration to young swimmers in Gaza and beyond.