Refugee Stories, continued........

Story #1 continued....

These two vulnerable people had to flee Iraq after the "militia"came into their home and ordered them to leave immediately or they would be killed. They walked out of their house with nothing but the clothes on their backs.  They now live all together on the outskirts of Syria. They care for one another as family and wait in hope. He explained this is the old tradition of Iraq, hospitality, taking care of each other and never rejecting anyone. Despite the uncertainties with which they live and the apparent hopelessness of their situation, this gentle man kept repeating "There is the hand of God in everything." 

     Due to her health problems the elderly woman is unable to travel and wait inthe long lines to apply for resettlement. Gabe Huck and Theresa Kubasak of Iraqi Student project (see link) were instrumental in arranging for someone to come to their home to assist them with the application process.

 She has a sister in New York who is eager to have her and her brother come tolive with them. They want to take care of them. She has done everything in herpower, including contacting her representatives, to assist her sister in Syriato come to the United States. Despite her sister's failing health and the condition of herdevelopmentally delayed brother, nothing has helped to expedite their case.

Their visas will expire soon. She and her fragile brother could get deported back to Iraq, where they have nothing left.

Story #2 continued....