The Féile festival in Derry will host a screening of the documentary "Life Support" on Friday, August 7, followed by a discussion with Dr Nick Maynard, a gastrointestinal surgeon who has worked extensively in Gaza.

The film uses footage and testimony from international doctors to document the challenges facing health workers in Gaza since October 2023. It shows attempts to provide care in hospitals damaged by bombardment, with shortages of medical supplies, severe food scarcity, and a high number of casualties, mostly women and children.

Dr Maynard has been visiting Gaza since 2010 and has volunteered there repeatedly since late 2023 through the charity Medical Aid for Palestinians. His work has included emergency operations and training local surgeons and medical students.

Last year, Dr Maynard opened Féile 2025 with a talk at Cultúrlann Uí Chanáin that drew over 150 attendees. On that occasion, he described the siege's toll on the health system, citing malnutrition, lack of essential drugs and equipment, and the large numbers killed and injured. He also spoke of the resilience of Palestinian medical staff who continue their work amid hunger, attacks, and personal loss.

The screening will take place at the Nerve Centre Cinema on Magazine Street at 7pm. Registration is available online, and full details of the Féile 2026 programme can be found on the festival website.