Yazan’s health declines amid care disruptions at Rjóðrið in Reykjavik

Yazan Tamimi, a twelve-year-old boy from Palestine suffering from Duchenne muscular dystrophy, has faced a severe decline in his health following interruptions in his healthcare services over the summer. Yazan is currently hospitalized at Rjóðrið, a care and rehabilitation unit in Reykjavik designed for long-term ill children, where he has shown significant deterioration.

The issues began after Yazan was discharged from Barnaspítali hringsins, leading to concerns raised by disability rights advocates regarding the adequacy of his care. As preparations for his deportation commenced, there were fears for his wellbeing, particularly as his condition worsened during a period when support systems broke down.

Upon visiting Yazan again recently, healthcare advocate Klara Briem described him as unrecognizable due to pain and emotional distress, prompting her to recommend immediate emergency care. His family, who had been managing to care for him at home, are reportedly overwhelmed, with Klara noting that they seemed even more devastated during her latest visit.

As the family’s deportation to Spain, originally scheduled for early July, was delayed without explanation, the lack of clear communication from authorities has left them anxious and uncertain. Advocates emphasize the urgent need for coordinated care to prevent further harm, as any wait time could exacerbate Yazan’s fragile condition. There are many preparations still required before Yazan can safely travel, including assessments from his doctors and ensuring appropriate medical equipment is available to accompany him.