JEDDAH, 25 May 2005 — Diabetes is a silent and terrible killer. Many people think that this chronic disease is an affliction of the wealthy, who can afford fatty foods and rich desserts. To some extent this is true, but in Saudi Arabia more often than not diabetes attacks the health of the poor who fill their bellies with bread instead of more expensive fruits and vegetables.
Pakistani national Hanif Ahmad Abdul Qayyum is one such soul. He did all kinds of jobs in Jeddah to eke out a living for his family. Cash was always short and such niceties as health care were put aside for essentials. The rent, food and school fees came first.
Three years ago when Hanif began to lose the sensation in his feet and felt constantly tired, he finally went to a polyclinic where he was diagnosed as a diabetic. He received some advice on how to live with this condition, but frankly medication, continuing health care and a proper diet were beyond his means.
Last year, a small cut in his left foot refused to heal and eventually the rotten odor and black color forced him to return to the clinic. By then it was too late. Amputation was the only choice.
That was some months ago. Now his leg is healthy again, the stump has healed and it is time for the prosthesis to be fitted. Sadly, Hanif has no way to pay for it. Only a few thousand riyals are needed to get him walking again but his family just doesn’t have the cash. All their meager savings have been wiped out since their breadwinner became ill and they are destitute.
Hanif is in despair. He cannot pray except in a seated position. He struggles just to hobble from the chair to the toilet. It is a humiliation for a man who has done his best all his life to provide for his wife and children. He wants to work but tasks are in short supply for someone who is far from able bodied.
A prosthesis would enable Hanif to drive again, and work as a driver and courier is available. Hanif is reaching out to the community to help him stand on his feet once more. If we all contribute a little it would go a long way to purchasing the prosthesis for Hanif. To make a donation please contact Siraj Wahab on 0504326220.
