Canadian charity provides 3D-printed prosthetic limbs to Palestinian amputees

The Victoria Hand Project (VHP), a Canadian charity dedicated to providing affordable 3D-printed prosthetic limbs, announced the successful completion of a mission to Cairo, Egypt, to provide vital prosthetic care to Palestinian amputees impacted by the ongoing war in Gaza.

In November, VHP’s founder and chief technical officer, Dr. Nick Dechev, travelled to Cairo, to initiate this critical project with  partner Canadian Expert Hand (CEH). During the mission, Palestinian patients were successfully fitted with custom-designed, low-cost, 3D-printed prosthetic arms, including four individuals who lost their limbs as a direct result of the war in Gaza. This initiative marks a significant step in addressing the immense and growing need for prosthetic rehabilitation among those displaced and injured by the humanitarian crisis.

Prosthetic care for Palestinians injured in the conflict in Gaza is essential, yet direct access to provide this care within Gaza is currently impossible,” said Nick Dechev, founder/CTO. “Our recent mission to Cairo enabled us to begin delivering life-changing solutions to Palestinians, empowering them to regain independence and dignity amidst unimaginable hardship.”

This new project in Egypt builds upon VHP’s extensive experience in the region, having worked in Egypt with CEH since 2017 to help Egyptian amputees, and now extending that established capacity to support Palestinians. The organization has also made a substantial impact in Ukraine, where it has helped over 150 amputees receive prosthetic limbs, enabling them to navigate daily life, return to work, and support their families.

The Victoria Hand Project’s sustainable model focuses on empowering local communities. In Cairo, VHP has provided CEH with cutting-edge 3D printing equipment, comprehensive training, and essential supplies, enabling our existing trained staff on the ground to continue producing and fitting the custom prosthetic arms for patients in need. This approach ensures long-term capacity building and access to care within the region.