In the east of Kabul, nestled between the harsh realities of conflict and displacement, lies Botkhak – an internally displaced persons (IDP) camp that is home to over 10,000 people, the majority of whom have fled the turmoil caused by 4 decades of war. Once farmers and pastoralists, this community now finds themselves crammed into tiny, makeshift shelters made from hay and mud.
These homes offer little protection from the biting cold, lacking proper doors, windows, and essential utilities. As winter descends, temperatures can plummet to a staggering -25°C, forcing residents to burn whatever they can put their hands on, from plastic to any flammable garbage, just to stay warm.
Even surrounded by these dire conditions, hope persists.
Islamic Relief runs a health clinic within the camp, striving to meet the people’s urgent medical needs. The small clinic, formed from a shipping container and a mud house donated by the community, offers primary healthcare services, psychosocial counselling, and referrals of severe cases to specialised medical facilities in the city.
A life filled with challenges
Morsal, a 9-year-old girl and the youngest of 8 siblings from the Botkhak IDP camp in Kabul, has shown us the true meaning of resilience. Born with Atrial Septal Defect (ASD), her life was filled with challenges as she copes with struggling to breathe, high fevers and dealing with frequent colds.
For Morsal, every day was a battle, yet she never gave up. Despite her frail health, her spirit remained strong and unbroken.
When Morsal was just 1 year old, her family fled the Tagab district in Kapisa province due to the conflict. They settled in the Botkhak IDP camp, where the challenges of displacement and poverty exacerbated Morsal’s health struggles.
The family had limited access to medical care, and the struggles of life as an internally displaced family left them without the means to seek proper treatment. But through it all, Morsal’s resilience and joy continued to shine.
Finding hope after a long search
Everything changed when Islamic Relief stepped in to support Morsal’s treatment. Morsal finally received the much needed medical attention at Hayat Hospital in Kabul, with the compassionate care and professional medical treatment she received there transforming her life.

After 6-months of dedicated treatment, Morsal’s health improved dramatically.
“Before this treatment, my daughter was in a very bad condition. She was frail and couldn’t sleep well at night. But now, Alhamdulillah, her heart is in good condition. She is full of life and energy. May Allah bless all those who have contributed to helping us in our time of need,” Morsal’s father, Rohullah, says, his voice filled with gratitude.
The emotional toll of watching his daughter suffer, coupled with the financial strain of not being able to afford her treatment, was overwhelming.

‘This clinic has always been a reliable place for my children’s care’
However, even with Morsal fully recovering from the heart condition, Morsal’s father remains cautious. A few weeks ago, Rohullah brought Morsal to the Islamic Relief clinic at the Botkhak camp for a different reason.
Since winter began, Morsal has been struggling with breathing difficulties, fever and cold-like symptoms. Morsal’s condition worsened, and she couldn’t sleep due to heavy coughing. Her father was worried that the cold could hurt her heart and put her in a dangerous situation.
“I’ve been coming to this clinic for a long time. Today, when I arrived at the clinic at 9am, Dr Fahimullah examined Morsal, diagnosing her with flu and a throat infection. She received the necessary medications, and I’m thankful for the free services, as I can’t afford treatment in private hospitals. This clinic has always been a reliable place for my children’s care.”
Now in the third grade, Morsal hopes to become a doctor one day, so she can help children and mothers in Afghanistan.
Morsal’s story is not just about her recovery but also about the importance of compassion and community support. Thanks to the support she has received from Botkhak clinic, this young girl can live a life full of hope, joy and health. A life that once seemed uncertain but is now filled with possibilities.
Help Islamic Relief support more children like Morsal in Afghanistan by donating generously today.