In Loving Memory of Maariyah Noor Rahman

Innah lilahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un (Surely we belong to Allah and to Him we shall return).

On October 5th 2022, we lost our beloved daughter, sister and friend, Maariyah Noor Rahman رحمة الله عليها (May Allah’s mercy and blessings be upon her).

Just under four years ago, at the age of 20, Maariyah was given a second chance at life. Despite being physically active all her life, she was suddenly diagnosed with severe heart failure and in need of a new heart. With people all around the world praying for her, by the grace of God and the generosity of an organ donor, Maariyah was blessed with a heart transplant on December 24th, 2018.

Following her transplant, Maariyah had a newfound appreciation for her existence. She was committed to living her best life. She travelled the world, spread her generosity, and enlightened the lives of all those she met. She was a gift from Allah (SWT) and was loved by many.

Maariyah lived with love and died with strong faith in her heart. Her last message online was, “All I can do is put my full faith and trust in God. He is the best of planners.” Maariyah knew her time in this world was limited and prepared for her departure. She did not see her death as something to mourn but rather as a celebration of all she accomplished in her short time here and all the lives she touched. Maariyah was a role model to so many and will live on in our hearts forever. She serves as a reminder to live life to the fullest and to be our truest selves.

The Messenger of Allah صلى الله عليه وسلم said, “The believer’s shade on the Day of Resurrection will be his charity.” (Tirmidhi). He was asked, “Which charity is best?” and replied, “Providing water.” (Abu Dawud)

Without water, we cannot survive; it is a source of life and a blessing from the Almighty. Allah (SWT) says in the Quran:

وَجَعَلْنَا مِنَ ٱلْمَآءِ كُلَّ شَىْءٍ حَىٍّ ۖ أَفَلَا يُؤْمِنُونَ

“And We created from water every living thing. Will they not then believe?” (21:30)

Building a well is a form of Sadaqah Jariyah: a continuous, flowing, and ongoing charity. It is one of the most rewarding acts we can do in our lives. The benefits of this charity follow us in this lifetime and long after we have passed.

Our goal is to raise $13,000 to build wells in underdeveloped regions of Pakistan, East Africa and Sahel Africa. We intend to have these wells built on Maariyah’s behalf through one of her favourite charity organizations, the International Development and Relief Foundation (IDRF).

JazakAllahu Khayrun