Remembering the Tragic Loss of Cousin Aamer: A Heartbreaking Tale of Love, Loss, and Resilience

Remembering Cousin Aamer, a nurse who loved crab, and was killed by Israel Gaza - Aamer Saeed al-Ramlawi, 45, was a beloved father of five. His cousin and best friend, Hassan Youssef al-Ramlawi, 33, fondly recalls Aamer's love for cooking and barbecuing, especially seafood, especially crab. Before the war on Gaza began, Aamer and Hassan spent a lot of time together, enjoying each other's company, barbecuing, and playing cards. Aamer's joyful and loving spirit was evident in his constant organizing of outings, despite limited entertainment options due to the Israeli blockade. A nursing director at al-Sorani Clinic, Aamer was always ready to help others, even if it meant leaving his hangout sessions with Hassan. He carried chocolate for kids and loved capturing memories through photography. Losing someone he loved was his greatest fear, and he prayed for everyone's safety. As the Israeli assault on Gaza intensified, Hassan and his family decided to relocate, but Aamer and his family chose to stay. Fearing for Aamer's safety, Hassan called him every day, but the last time they saw each other was when Hassan left the north. On October 25, Hassan saw a photo of his cousin Doaa, who survived an Israeli raid on their building. Aamer lived in the same building. Frantically calling Aamer, Hassan searched every online platform for news, but there was no response. In disbelief, Hassan returned to Gaza City the next morning, despite the danger. He rushed to the flattened building, where bodies were still being recovered. Uncertain if Aamer was among the victims, he reached out to Aamer's brothers at al-Shifa Hospital, but they had no information about his fate. With no news, Hassan reluctantly returned to Deir el-Balah, feeling frustrated and scared. Later that evening, he received a call confirming Aamer's death. Overwhelmed with grief, memories of their time together flooded Hassan's mind. Looking at his tear-filled eyes in the mirror, he mourned the loss of his cousin, his brother, his friend, and his soulmate. Amidst his sorrow, Hassan also laments the destruction of the places where he and Aamer shared precious moments. His memories will be cherished in a special place in his mind, even as Israel denies him the chance to remember his cousin.