Crisis in Lebanon – one doctor's story

Hospital physician Nour al-Jalbout has made the tough decision to leave her native country, Lebanon. Disaster after disaster has made it impossible for Nour to stay.

Nour was on duty at the time of the horrific Beirut chemical blast last summer.

Nour: "I have the most noble job - when I'm doing it, and I'm doing the best I can. [And then came] August 4 - I was here and the ceiling fell off on us."

Nour's apartment was hit by the blast.

Nour longs for a peaceful life.

Nour: "I mean, we're known for our resilience, it's kind of, of a double-edged sword. Like, the Lebanese resilience, I'm like fed up of being resilient. I don't want to live this life anymore, you know. I want to live a decent life and not be having to face a bomb, and civil riots, and war every like couple of years - it's heart-breaking."

Many citizens of Lebanon are angry and have no confidence in their country's leadership. In addition, the country is struggling with both the impact of the coronavirus pandemic and a huge financial crisis.

Medical salaries have dropped significantly and many are unable to withdraw their money from the bank. Even hospitals are struggling to afford essential medicines.

Nour: "So, every month there's a medication that's essential that is out of stock. So, it goes back and forth until we get the money and then get the supplies. Oh, he needs to be midlined."

Nour had hoped for a successful medical career here, once famous for quality healthcare. Now, along with other talented medics, she's moving abroad, though not out of choice. Her heart remains in Lebanon, but she needs to escape a damaging cycle.

Nour: "For me Beirut is like opium, [they call it "afiun" in Arabic]. You are, you're addicted to it but it's so bad for you, it's toxic. So [my love for Beirut is like this] this bad relationship that's not good for me and I have to just get out."

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