Friends – a vast majority of humans suffer from economic injustice. Economic inequality is not just about money—it’s about access to life itself. To healthcare, education, safety, dignity, voice, and opportunity.

Pictured here are my friend Ahmet and his son Azad. They look good. They’re handsome and well dressed. That’s because Ahmet, in spite of all his challenges, tries to make sure he meets them with dignity.

In fact, Ahmet works at a restaurant seven days a week, from 10 am to 11 pm. Every day. He has no weekends off, any day off, any time of the year. He earns $35 a day. Not an hour, a day. His income of $1000 a month, barely meets his rent and utilities, let alone his children’s schooling, clothes and other expenses.

The biggest challenge facing Ahmet now is his wife’s medical condition. The family live on the fourth floor of a walk-up in a working-class neighborhood. Zeynep, who’s in desperate need of knee-replacement surgery, can no longer handle the stairs. She can’t leave the house to buy groceries. She cooks, she cleans, but she’s trapped at home.

Knee replacement surgery in Turkey costs about 130,000 TL which is the equivalent of $4000. Imagine that. Even though Ahmet bravely declares “money is no issue,” I know that this is an expense he can’t possibly meet.

The Turkish economy under the long-lasting autocratic government, is worse than ever. Millions of people are suffering. A $20 donation makes 730 TL. It may not seem like a lot but is significant for this family.

I’m often embarrassed that I was given the opportunities Ahmet never had. Knowing him, I see his struggles, his amazing ability to stay positive (not always successfully) and his devotion to his family. I’m honored that he’s my friend.

Truly, any bit will help. Thanks and Blessings.