A Journey of Compassion and Challenges: Supporting Refugees in Lebanon

​This July, my brother was struck down by a mini-bus in Lebanon. The driver, recognizing his
Syrian accent, cruelly left him injured on the street. This incident highlights the discrimination
and hardships faced by refugees who often cannot seek proper medical care due to their legal
status.

My brother tolerated over four months of pain because he lacked the necessary documentation
required to be admitted to a hospital. Unable to secure the needed medical attention during my
initial visit, I was compelled to return at the end of this September.
With the assistance of a local nurse, we managed to arrange a doctor's visit in exchange for a
financial incentive that was given to the nurse (in other words a bribe). The doctor diagnosed my
brother with a fractured thumb that required surgical correction, which we proceeded with
immediately.

I also faced challenges in securing basic education for my brother's two young children, both
under the age of 6. A private school required a financial incentive just to allow them to attend
classes without any formal recognition or certification. Despite these barriers, my priority was
ensuring they received some form of education, like any other child of their age.
This journey, with multiple trips and days spent navigating through reroutes due to the Beirut
airport closure due to the current war, was a complete reminder of the resilience required in the
face of systemic obstacles. From flying to Dubai, then to Syria, and finally reaching Lebanon by
taxi, every step was a proof to the commitment required to support our loved ones in crisis.
Considering the tough circumstances in Lebanon, we hope that the process of bringing my
brother and his family to safety will be expedited. Our work as a sponsorship group is vital.
Every effort we make helps to lighten the burden on this Syrian family who have already
suffered too much.
​
Please attend our upcoming fundraising event and contribute in any way you can to support
these efforts. Your generosity can make a significant difference in the lives of my younger
brother’s family, who are seeking refuge and a more livable future. Let us continue to stand
together in compassion and action.

Sketched by Perla, Alex's wife.

Sketched by Perla, Alex's wife.