“We risked death trying to reach a safe place”
Syria’s unrelenting conflict has cost Um Eyad one daughter and four sons. We met her and her husband, who are both in their 70s, in Hibat Allah camp, near the border with Turkey.
“We arrived in the camp a month ago,” Um Eyad told us, “after we lost four sons and a daughter in the fighting that occurred in our village, Khan Shaikhoun. I could not do anything. My son was sitting at home, his house was bombed and he died. My grandson was injured. My neighbour lost three of his sons.
“We escaped the village during intensive shelling and bombing. We risked death trying to reach a safe place.”
Most of the people who lived in their village have fled, with many – like Um Eyad – facing the hardships of life in one of the many camps for displaced people scattered across Syria. It is particularly difficult for this family, which includes four disabled children who require regular medical care.
I would like to go back home
“I would like to go back as there is no electricity here, no clean water, and not enough shelter, food, mattresses and blankets. Unfortunately, the violence continues.”
Islamic Relief provided Um Eyad with essential items such as blankets, mattresses and food parcels – offering some relief from the worry of meeting the basic needs of her family. However, Um Eyad knows they all face an uncertain future.
“We used to live a normal life, working our land to make a living. Our house is destroyed and we lost all of our belongings. I’ve lost everything. There is no-one to follow and nowhere to go after what happened to us. May God grant me patience and strength.
“I hope all the people around the world support us and help us.”
Now in its fourth year, the conflict in Syria has become the worst humanitarian disaster of modern times. At least 11.7 million people need help, and the figure continues to rise.
Islamic Relief has been working inside Syria and in neighbouring countries since 2012. Last year, our emergency programmes reached around 2.72 million people affected by the violence.
As the humanitarian situation continues to deteriorate, and more families flee their homes, we want to continue to be there for those that need us the most. With your help, we can: donate to our Syria appeal today.
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