Helping the Displaced Amid Brutality

During the harrowing years of 2012-2013, as millions of Syrians fled for their lives from the relentless brutality of Bashar Al-Assad’s regime—marked by atrocities and barrel bombings—a profound humanitarian crisis unfolded. Countless Syrians, forced to abandon their homes, sought refuge in makeshift tents nestled in the mountains of Lebanon, clinging to the hope of safety amidst unimaginable despair.

At that pivotal moment, I joined forces with several global aid organizations including family members and friends to answer the call of humanity. With an unwavering commitment to help those displaced and destitute, we launched comprehensive humanitarian efforts, encompassing immediate relief as well as long-term socio-economic and educational support for the displaced Syrian citizens. We orchestrated the shipment of hundreds of truckloads filled with clothing, food, and essential supplies to devastated regions, including Aleppo, Idlib, Qalamoun, Sofar, and Arsal.

Our days were filled with efforts to alleviate the suffering of the displaced. We worked tirelessly, accompanied by my favorite niece “Alma” and muscle man/nephew “Hanny” shown in some of the pictures below, and of course the best sister ever “Arwa” distributing food, clothing, and medical supplies, but most importantly, offering a semblance of hope to those who had lost so much. The resilience and strength displayed by the refugees were both inspiring and humbling. Despite the dire circumstances, they held onto their dignity and their humanity, teaching us valuable lessons in perseverance and solidarity.

Every act of kindness, each supportive gesture, and every shared moment of sorrow and hope created a profound force of empathy, reflecting the resilience and strength of the human spirit.

The conditions we witnessed were beyond heartbreaking—children shivering in the cold, families huddled in overcrowded tents, and communities grappling with the profound loss of their homes and futures. These scenes etched themselves into our souls, bringing tears not only to my eyes but to those of our entire team. Yet, amidst the despair, we found solace and strength in our shared mission: to bring hope, relief, and a semblance of dignity to those who had lost so much..

This experience left a lasting impression on my soul, serving as a powerful reminder of the profound difference we can make when we unite to help those in need. In the surprising smile of a nine-year-old boy right after wiping away his tears, I witnessed the light of humanity breaking through, illuminating a path of hope and resilience for everyone.

The mission to Arsal in the Lebanese mountains at the Syrian border was the hardest on me. I witnessed how families suffered day to day. The sight of young boys, barely old enough to understand the gravity of war, being sent to the front lines asking for freedom and never come back, tore at my heart. Their faces, etched with a forced determination, reflected the harsh reality of their lives, where childhoods were sacrificed for the hope of a better tomorrow.

In Arsal, the struggle for survival was palpable. Every step through the camp revealed stories of loss and resilience. Mothers, with tears in their eyes, recounted tales of bravery and sorrow, their voices carrying the weight of their hopes and fears. Despite the overwhelming despair, there was an unyielding spirit among the people—a belief that one day, their sacrifices would lead to the dawn of freedom they so rightfully deserved.

Our mission in Arsal became more than just providing aid; it was about standing in solidarity with those who had given so much, about acknowledging their pain and sharing in their fight for liberation. The bonds we formed with the people of Arsal, the shared moments of grief and glimpses of hope, left an indelible mark on our soul. It was a poignant reminder that in the face of adversity, humanity’s true strength lies in its capacity for compassion and solidarity.