In the midst of the excitement and chaos of the Paris 2024 Olympics, one of the unsung heroes is Imane Chehaibou, a 25-year-old nurse who has been battling more than just medical challenges. Working in the areas surrounding the Olympic facilities in Saint-Denis and Saint-Ouen, her daily routine has become increasingly complicated due to the heightened security measures.
Chehaibou’s day starts early, often before dawn, as she makes her rounds caring for patients who rely on her. On the morning of July 31, she began her day in Stains, tending to an elderly woman recovering from stomach surgery. Despite the quiet streets, her drive was anything but simple. Navigating through multiple police roadblocks, each one requiring her to present her credentials—a caduceus on her windshield, a professional card on the dashboard, and a QR code provided by the police—has turned what used to be straightforward trips into nerve-wracking experiences.
Later that morning, she headed to Saint-Denis to care for a 10-month-old baby recovering from major intestinal surgery. Fortunately, this time she made it through the roadblocks without incident. As she entered the home, her calm demeanor behind her brown veil and surgical mask brought a smile to the baby’s face.
Chehaibou has been working in post-surgical care for over two years, and despite the challenges presented by the Olympic Games, she remains dedicated to her patients. Her resilience and commitment make her one of the many unsung heroes ensuring that life continues for those in need, even in the shadow of the global spectacle unfolding around her.
