Jobless, cancer-stricken Syrian woman in Dubai appeals for help
Munira also has to now look after her mother and niece who have fled from war-torn Syria
Dubai: When one hears Munira Abdul Karim speak, one cannot be sure where her story begins.
Was it the day she was diagnosed with cancer in her breasts and right arm, or was it the day she found herself out of a job when her company shut down, or was it the day she became the sole guardian of her mother and 12-year-old niece Huda after their brave escape from Syria late last year?
Terrible three years
“The last three years have been terrible. I was diagnosed with cancer and lost my job. Seven months back, my visa expired and if all this were not bad enough, I had to bring my helpless mother and young niece Huda from war torn Syria.
“Huda lost her mother in an explosion near our home in the capital. Obviously, I had to help.”
By then, the hospital had stopped treating her for cancer because her visa had expired. She was in a financial mess and could not pay rent for her apartment.
Yet it didn’t deter Munira.With the help of a friend, she somehow raised enough money to answer her call of duty.
“The pro-government gunmen took over the area where our house is located in Damascus. My mother told me they tried to molest Huda. I couldn’t have let her stay there,” recalled Munira.
Munira’s mother Gathwa Ahmad Attiya told XPRESS she feared the gunmen would take Huda away, “they’ve done this to other families. There was no telling what they’ll do to my granddaughter. I am thankful we were able to escape to the UAE,” she said.
With the help of Sharjah authorities, Huda has started school, but fears the arrangment is temporary and all of them might be deported to Syria.
“I’m not asking for charity. All I’m hoping for is to find a job that covers my rent and ensures I have a visa so I may resume treatment and keep my niece here with me where she’s safe,” she said.
Facing eviction
For now Munira’s immediate concern is to arrange Dh5,500 before July 5 to avoid eviction.
“I begged with the landlord to give me more time but he refused. I would be grateful if someone could help me put my life back on track,” Munira said.
Editor's Note:
Dear Readers,
Thank you for writing to XPRESS and
offering to help Munira Abdul Karim You may directly get in touch with her on +971-55 841 2313. Thank you for your support
XPRESS TEAM
