This piece was reprinted by OpEd News with permission or license. It may not be reproduced in any form without permission or license from the source.
On March 19, PHR-I's doctor explained her condition. She risks imminent death because of significant physical deterioration.
<blockquote>The process includes "muscle breakdown, with a weight loss of 14 kg (31 lb.) since the onset of the hunger strike, a very slow pulse, and a drop in blood sodium levels. These symptoms could indicate grave damage to the heart and the beginning of the breakdown of the heart muscle, which could lead to heart failure at any moment."</blockquote>
With a body temperature of 95.09 degrees Fahrenheit, she's hypothermic. It means body energy gets directed mainly to essential organs. It also indicates possible heart damage. It suggests arrhythmia (irregular heart beat), systemic deterioration, and possible sudden death.
In addition, Hana won't take prison medications or let a prison doctor examine her. She's also not ambulatory without help, and exhibits "significant weakness, low blood pressure, serious pain throughout her body, significant sensitivity in her upper abdominal region, and serious dizziness."
March 14 blood tests show abnormally low glucose and sodium levels, as well as thyroid damage. "The thyroid plays a critical role in maintaining body temperature, as well as heart, liver, and brain function. Significant damage to the thyroid gland could lead to a coma...." Hana's in grave danger of slipping into one and dying.
March 19 blood tests indicated clotting disruption and significantly low vitamin and iron levels. After examining her, PHR-I's doctor said her life's in imminent danger. As a result, he urged immediate hospitalization.
Israel's Prison Service sent her to Meir Hospital in Kfar Saba. Palestinian Minister of Detainees, Issa Qaraqe, noted her grave condition. He added that she won't ingest liquids or medications except with a PHR-I doctor present.
Qaraqe holds Israel responsible. He appealed to human rights groups to help save her. Hana demands simple justice: freedom or death.
(Note: You can view every article as one long page if you sign up as an Advocate Member, or higher).
