Help Meryem and her Daughter Ozlem in Their Time of Need

*** For those donating in USD, please note that the fundraising is set in CAD. Kindly convert the amount accordingly when making your donation. Thank you!

Hello, I am reaching out to help my dear friend from university, Meryem Mumcu. We studied together back in our home country, and I remember her as a bright, energetic, and joyful person. Recently, I was fortunate enough to reconnect with her, but what I discovered broke my heart.

Meryem’s 12-year-old daughter, Ozlem, has been diagnosed with a devastating illness: Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA). She was born with this condition, but at the time, no cure was available. A treatment was discovered five years later, but sadly, it was too late—this disease can only be effectively treated within the first two years of life. Now, there is no cure for Ozlem, and she requires continuous medical care to manage her condition.

Currently, Ozlem cannot breathe or eat on her own and relies on machines and frequent tube replacements. She also requires full assistance with all basic needs, including diapers, which Meryem must change every two hours. Despite the immense challenges, Meryem is doing everything she can to care for her daughter, but her circumstances make it incredibly difficult.

Meryem’s life has not been easy. She endured an abusive marriage, which led to her divorce, and her ex-husband—who suffers from psychological issues—is no longer in the picture. For safety reasons, Meryem has cut off all contact with him and does not receive any alimony. Government support is minimal.

On top of this, Meryem has no other family support. She has an older sister, but due to her own struggles, she is unable to help.

To survive, Meryem sells socks to afford basic necessities for herself and Ozlem. However, this small income is nowhere near enough to cover their medical and living expenses. On average, they need $500 USD per month just for food, medication, and essential care.

I am asking for your support to raise one year’s worth of funds ($6,000 USD - CAN $8,600) to provide Meryem and Ozlem with stability during this incredibly difficult time. In addition 300 CAD goes to gofundme fees. Which is why the total amount is 8,900 CAD. This would allow them to focus on what matters most—spending precious time together without the constant fear of hunger, or lack of medical supplies.

Any contribution, no matter how small, will make a difference. If you are unable to donate, please consider sharing this message.

Let’s come together and help this loving mother and daughter in their time of need. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Meryem’s Instagram Page Link: kelebekbebegim

May God bless you and keep you and your close ones safe.