Let's make Salwa laugh, but not with bombs

Remember the video that went viral of a Syrian father teaching his daughter how to laugh as the bombs fell all around them? I do. 

But what I felt wasn’t grief or sadness; I felt the overwhelming unconditional love of a parent. Like any other father, Abdullah wanted the best for his daughter, Salwa. He wanted her to grow up in a safe and loving home, and in a community where she can make friends, pursue an education, and – most importantly – be happy. 

By teaching Salwa how to laugh, Abdullah used whatever means necessary to protect his daughter from the anxiety and trauma that comes from war. Salwa lived her whole life through war, but Abdullah tried to make it as normal as possible for his daughter.
Not only did Abdullah show the power of love and family, but his video was a gift to the world. He inspired mothers, fathers, and caregivers to never give up supporting their children at the worst times, in war or otherwise. He taught them that there is always a way, even when there is almost nothing left. Abdullah showed the world the power of the human spirit.

The family is now in Turkey. While there are no more bombs falling, they are still carrying the burden of trying to make up for all they lost to live a normal life again. They have suffered greatly. I now believe it’s our turn to give back to Abdullah, Salwa, and their family. They lost everything in one of the most devastating wars the world has witnessed. While they are strong and show their strength through each laugh, they are still carrying the burden of war. They have suffered.

Times are hard for all of us. But if each of us can give a little something, then together we would be giving a huge gift for Salwa and her family. We can play a role in helping them secure a safe and prosperous future.

Let’s make Salwa smile and laugh – but not at the bombs

All donations will go to help Salwa, Abdullah and their family.

About me: 

My name is Mark and I have been involved in education for 20 years and have always wanted to help children. As an educator, Salwa and Abdullah are an inspiration to me. I got in touch with Abdullah to send Salwa gifts after seeing the video, and when we talked I understood he wasn’t doing well financially in Turkey. That’s when I decided to start the campaign.