“In Syria I was part of the national gymnastic team. I competed in many international tournaments. When the war broke out I had to join the army. Because I was an athlete I could postpone my service several times. I kept having faith that the war would end within a year. Despite of the unbearable situation I kept on training. Our team kept getting smaller because most guys had to go to the army. About a year ago it was just me and another athlete left, I realized it was time.. I postponed my service once more and I left..”