Hello everyone,

I am writing this with a heart that feels impossibly heavy. I’m reaching out to you today to ask for your help for my dearest friend in the world, Maria.

Maria and I have been sisters in spirit since we were little girls. We grew up together, shared our dreams, our secrets, and the unshakable bond of a lifetime of friendship. She is one of the kindest, most resilient people I have ever known, and now, she is facing the fight of her life.

Recently, Maria was diagnosed with Stage 3 Breast Cancer. The words no one ever wants to hear. Her treatment is aggressive and urgent: she requires a mastectomy (surgical removal of her breast) followed by intensive chemotherapy. The physical and emotional toll of this alone is unimaginable.

But her battle is compounded by a tragedy she has already endured.

Because of the devastating war in Sudan, Maria lost everything. Her home, her job, and the life she built were ripped away. She is now a refugee in Egypt, trying to piece together a future for herself and her three beautiful children, who are her entire world. She faced the terror of war and emerged with only her children by her side, and now she must face this.

My brave friend, who has already lost so much, now stands to lose her health, her strength, and her chance to watch her children grow up. I cannot, and will not, let that happen without a fight.

I am setting up this fundraiser to cover the overwhelming costs of her surgery, chemotherapy, and medications. Any funds raised will also go directly towards providing shelter, food, and a semblance of stability for her children during this terrifying time. She has no safety net. She has no one to turn to but us.

My goal is simple: to give Maria the chance to survive. To give her children their mother. To give my best friend a future.

I know times are hard for everyone, but I am begging you, from the bottom of my heart, to please consider donating. No amount is too small. If you cannot donate, I implore you to share this post as far and wide as you can. Let’s surround Maria with a community of support she cannot see, but will surely feel.

Please help me ensure that her children do not have to face the world without their mother. Please help my best friend live.

With endless gratitude and hope,

Safia

#TeamMaria #FightLikeAGirl #StandWithMaria