have the fondest memories of my parents. Both were social activists, passionate about education and helping others who are less fortunate. My mother taught at a school for the visually impaired in Damascus, Syria. At the time, a person having a physical disability meant a life of emotional and social hardship. While they were offered compassion, the society wrote most people with disabilities off. My mother was one of those who saw them and was committed to support them. She took me with her to their after school program and had the sweetest stories to share about her work.
There are an estimated 1.3 million Syrians with disabilities resulting from the conflict. While the conflict has been challenging to all Syrians, it is particularly difficult for refugees, and exponentially more challenging for refugees with disabilities.
To that end, I set up the Wajeh and Estebar Barazi fund, to support Syrian youth with disabilities resulting from the conflict.
Our first beneficiary, Maher Fatthouh, lost his eyesight fleeing the conflict on foot from Syria to Lebanon. Shortly after losing his eyesight, he started using technology to teach himself, graduated from high school and applied to University. Today, Maher studies education and volunteers to help others with visual impairment.
By donating to the Estebar and Wajih Barazi fund, you will help grow our ability to support youth with special physical abilities. Wishing you and your loved ones a happy 2020. Please Donate today.