I first met Mahdi in 2016 when a group of us (Syria to Guelph Sponsorship Group) supported him and his family to come to Canada as refugees from Syria. At the time, they were living in Lebanon under very difficult circumstances. Since then, I have gotten to know Mahdi and his family well, and I can say without hesitation that they are kind, hardworking, and deeply devoted to their children.

Mahdi has always done everything he can to support his family with dignity and independence. Asking for help does not come easily to him. The health challenges, medical trauma, and financial stress he has faced would be overwhelming for anyone, and especially for someone supporting a family of six children.

Thank you for taking the time to read, and for any support you’re able to provide, whether through donating or sharing.

Frances Dietrich-O'Connor

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Mahdi's Story

I never imagined I would reach a point where I have to ask for help, but over the past few years, my life has taken a very difficult turn.

I have been facing ongoing personal, health , and financial challenges that have deeply affected my stability and ability to work consistently. In addition, I went through very serious health conditions including a blood infection and sepsis — I was hospitalized for several months, underwent two surgeries, and then continued receiving treatment at home for nearly a year. During that time, I had a medical line inserted through my arm into my veins reaching close to my heart to deliver continuous treatment. This had a major impact on my daily life and my ability to work.

What made things even harder is that due to a medical error, I was wrongly diagnosed with cancer, and this mistake was not corrected for over two months. During that time, I lived under extreme stress and fear, thinking What will my family do when I die? How much longer do I have to live? A month? Two months? A year, more or less? which severely affected my mental health and led to depression. I am still receiving psychological treatment to cope with the effects of that experience.

I work in tile and ceramic installation, but during this period, work has become very slow, and at the same time, my health condition has not allowed me to work at full capacity, making my financial situation even more difficult.

Because of all this, my bills have accumulated — including rent, electricity, water, and basic living expenses. I am now facing the risk of eviction, and my family and I could end up without a home if I am unable to get through this crisis.

I have always tried to rely on myself and take responsibility, but honestly, this situation has become more than I can handle alone. I am doing everything I can to rebuild my life, return to stability, and get back to work, but right now I need support to get through this critical time.

Any contribution, no matter how small, will help me:

• Pay overdue bills (rent, electricity, water)

• Provide basic needs for my family

• Regain stability until I can fully return to work

If you are unable to donate, sharing this page would mean a lot to me.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your kindness, support, and understanding. I am determined to overcome this and stand strong again.